Attacking <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-ndas-wayanad-candidate-demands-review-of-rahul-gandhis-nomination-from-constituency-212367">Congress president Rahul Gandhi</a>, Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday urged the people here to vote for BDJS candidate Tushar Vellappally and send across a message to Delhi and Amethi that "you do not want failed MP coming and parachuting into Wayanad."

"Kerala should set an example. What happened during the floods? How much Wayanad suffered? A flood which only if were carefully managed by the LDP government. The Chief Minister should take personal responsibility for not having opened dams on time because of which the people suffered. The flood was totally avoidable," she said.

"Therefore, please vote for BDJS candidate Tushar Vellappally and send a message out of Kerala clearly heard till Delhi and Amethi - We want people from here. We do not want failed MP coming and parachuting into Wayanad," Sitharaman said while addressing a rally here.

"Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru had said about the Muslim League that it is a dead horse. Today, his great-grandson comes to ride on the back of that dead horse. What an irony and Wayanad you are a witness to this irony. Do you want this? We do not want this," she said.

Sitharaman also invited the people of Wayanad to "see development works in Amethi."

"It remains one of the most backward areas of Uttar Pradesh... Wayanad needs development. It needs to develop quickly," he said.

"Wayanad needs a visionary Prime Minister to help the constituency," she said.

Sitharaman also slammed the Left Front.

"The hypocrisy that I want to highlight here is - When Rahul Gandhi was chosen by the Congress party to contest from Wayanad, the top leadership of the Left Front said that the Congress party has chosen Rahul Gandhi because they want to treat us in Kerala as their principal operant. We shall not tolerate this. We shall work to defeat him," she said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Attacking Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday urged the people here to vote for BDJS candidate Tushar Vellappally and send across a message to Delhi and Amethi that "you do not want failed MP coming and parachuting into Wayanad.

Attacking Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday urged the people here to vote for BDJS candidate Tushar Vellappally and send across a message to Delhi and Amethi that "you do not want failed MP coming and parachuting into Wayanad." "Kerala should set an example. What happened during the floods? How much Wayanad suffered? A flood which only if were carefully managed by the LDP government. The Chief Minister should take personal responsibility for not having opened dams on time because of which the people suffered. The flood was totally avoidable," she said. "Therefore, please vote for BDJS candidate Tushar Vellappally and send a message out of Kerala clearly heard till Delhi and Amethi - We want people from here. We do not want failed MP coming and parachuting into Wayanad," Sitharaman said while addressing a rally here. "Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru had said about the Muslim League that it is a dead horse. Today, his great-grandson comes to ride on the back of that dead horse. What an irony and Wayanad you are a witness to this irony. Do you want this? We do not want this," she said. Sitharaman also invited the people of Wayanad to "see development works in Amethi." "It remains one of the most backward areas of Uttar Pradesh... Wayanad needs development. It needs to develop quickly," he said. "Wayanad needs a visionary Prime Minister to help the constituency," she said. Sitharaman also slammed the Left Front. "The hypocrisy that I want to highlight here is - When Rahul Gandhi was chosen by the Congress party to contest from Wayanad, the top leadership of the Left Front said that the Congress party has chosen Rahul Gandhi because they want to treat us in Kerala as their principal operant. We shall not tolerate this. We shall work to defeat him," she said.

Don't want failed MP coming to Wayanad: Nirmala Sitharaman slams Rahul Gandhi

Uttar Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday accused Congress president Rahul Gandhi of fooling the country with his "fake name" and said he is known as 'Raul Vinci' in Britain and Italy.

The accusation follows a complaint filed by Independent candidate Dhruv Lal in Amethi Lok Sabha constituency, from where Gandhi is fighting his fourth election, about alleged discrepancies in the Congress leader's election affidavit, including about non-disclosure of a company registered in the UK in the name of 'Raul Vinci'.

The Congress party's Amethi unit chief Yogendra Misra had said the objections will be countered legally on Monday.

No central leader or spokesperson has reacted to the allegations.&nbsp;

Addressing a poll meeting in Ghatampur of Kanpur Dehat, Adityanath said, "The 'naamdar' of Congress you know as Rahul Gandhi... In reality, he is not Rahul Gandhi. The country has been fooled with this name. His name is Raul Vinci. I am astonished that Congress is committing this sin of fooling the nation. The real names of Rahul and Priyanka should come before people."&nbsp;

"In Britain and Italy he is Raul Vinci and in India becomes Rahul Gandhi with a fake name," he alleged.

Amethi Returning Officer Ram Manohar Mishra had ordered the postponement of scrutiny of Gandhi's nomination papers to April 22 after Lal filed the complaint.

One of the issues Lal had raised in the complaint was on the "basis of a certificate of incorporation of a company registered in the UK wherein he (Gandhi) has declared himself a UK citizen Raul Vinci".

Seizing on the opportunity to attack Gandhi, the BJP also alleged on Saturday that the Congress chief had said that he did M Phil in development economics from Cambridge

University, but inquiries show that one 'Raul Vinci' and not Rahul Gandhi got the degree that particular year.

"We will like to know if Rahul Gandhi goes by multiple names in different countries," BJP spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao had said.

Uttar Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday accused Congress president Rahul Gandhi of fooling the country with his "fake name" and said he is known as 'Raul Vinci' in Britain and Italy.

Uttar Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday accused Congress president Rahul Gandhi of fooling the country with his "fake name" and said he is known as 'Raul Vinci' in Britain and Italy. The accusation follows a complaint filed by Independent candidate Dhruv Lal in Amethi Lok Sabha constituency, from where Gandhi is fighting his fourth election, about alleged discrepancies in the Congress leader's election affidavit, including about non-disclosure of a company registered in the UK in the name of 'Raul Vinci'. The Congress party's Amethi unit chief Yogendra Misra had said the objections will be countered legally on Monday. No central leader or spokesperson has reacted to the allegations. Addressing a poll meeting in Ghatampur of Kanpur Dehat, Adityanath said, "The 'naamdar' of Congress you know as Rahul Gandhi... In reality, he is not Rahul Gandhi. The country has been fooled with this name. His name is Raul Vinci. I am astonished that Congress is committing this sin of fooling the nation. The real names of Rahul and Priyanka should come before people." "In Britain and Italy he is Raul Vinci and in India becomes Rahul Gandhi with a fake name," he alleged. Amethi Returning Officer Ram Manohar Mishra had ordered the postponement of scrutiny of Gandhi's nomination papers to April 22 after Lal filed the complaint. One of the issues Lal had raised in the complaint was on the "basis of a certificate of incorporation of a company registered in the UK wherein he (Gandhi) has declared himself a UK citizen Raul Vinci". Seizing on the opportunity to attack Gandhi, the BJP also alleged on Saturday that the Congress chief had said that he did M Phil in development economics from Cambridge University, but inquiries show that one 'Raul Vinci' and not Rahul Gandhi got the degree that particular year. "We will like to know if Rahul Gandhi goes by multiple names in different countries," BJP spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao had said.

Rahul Gandhi known as 'Raul Vinci' in Britain, Italy: Yogi Adityanath

Poll authorities have given permission to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/raj-thackeray-continues-to-slam-modi-and-shah-asks-voters-to-remove-them-211362">Raj Thackeray</a>-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) to hold a rally in Mumbai South Lok Sabha constituency next week.

Authorities had reportedly denied permission to the rally earlier.

The Mumbai city district election office Sunday said it has set up a single window clearance system for giving permission to election campaigning for all candidates.

"Permissions to hold election meetings are given after following a due procedure. It is ensured that there is no injustice to anyone. The permission to Maharashtra Navnirman Sena has been given after following a due procedure," the election office said in a statement.

In Mumbai South constituency, Shiv Sena's sitting MP Arvind Sawant is pitted against Mumbai Congress president Milind Deora.

Though the MNS&nbsp;is not contesting elections this time, Raj Thackeray has been holding rallies across Maharashtra appealing to people to vote against the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The BJP and the Sena are accusing the MNS chief of doing the bidding of the Congress and the NCP.

In coming days, Thackeray is slated to address rallies in Mumbai and suburbs.

All six Lok Sabha constituencies of Mumbai go to polls on April 29.

Poll authorities have given permission to Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) to hold a rally in Mumbai South Lok Sabha constituency next week. Authorities had reportedly denied permission to the rally earlier.

Poll authorities have given permission to Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) to hold a rally in Mumbai South Lok Sabha constituency next week. Authorities had reportedly denied permission to the rally earlier. The Mumbai city district election office Sunday said it has set up a single window clearance system for giving permission to election campaigning for all candidates. "Permissions to hold election meetings are given after following a due procedure. It is ensured that there is no injustice to anyone. The permission to Maharashtra Navnirman Sena has been given after following a due procedure," the election office said in a statement. In Mumbai South constituency, Shiv Sena's sitting MP Arvind Sawant is pitted against Mumbai Congress president Milind Deora. Though the MNS is not contesting elections this time, Raj Thackeray has been holding rallies across Maharashtra appealing to people to vote against the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The BJP and the Sena are accusing the MNS chief of doing the bidding of the Congress and the NCP. In coming days, Thackeray is slated to address rallies in Mumbai and suburbs. All six Lok Sabha constituencies of Mumbai go to polls on April 29.

Poll officials grant permission to Raj Thackeray-led MNS' Mumbai South rally

Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer Satyabrata Sahoo on Sunday said he has recommended to the Election Commission to conduct repolling in 10 polling stations in the state.

The top election official told reporters here that after a perusal of reports of authorities including those from the general observers and presiding officers, repoll has been recommended for the consideration of the EC.

Eight polling stations falling under the Lok Sabha segment of Dharmapuri and one booth under Tiruvallur Parliamentary constituency have been recommended for repolling, he said.

Also, repolling has been recommended in one polling station falling under the Cuddalore Lok Sabha constituency.

The CEO's comment assumes significance in the wake of alleged irregularities in a number of booths falling under these constituencies when the polling was held on April 18.

In polling stations under the Lok Sabha segments of Dharmapuri and Tiruvallur, repolling has been recommended for both Parliamentary elections and bypolls to the Assembly seats of Pappireddipatti and Poonamallee.

Tiruvallur Lok Sabha segment covers Poonamallee Assembly constituency and Dharmapuri includes Pappireddipatti Assembly seat.

By-polls were held to 18 Assembly seats including Poonamallee and Pappireddipatti on April 18 along with polls to 38 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu.

Polling for Vellore Lok Sabha constituency was rescinded following the seizure of cash ahead of the elections.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer Satyabrata Sahoo on Sunday said he has recommended to the Election Commission to conduct repolling in 10 polling stations in the state.

Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer Satyabrata Sahoo on Sunday said he has recommended to the Election Commission to conduct repolling in 10 polling stations in the state. The top election official told reporters here that after a perusal of reports of authorities including those from the general observers and presiding officers, repoll has been recommended for the consideration of the EC. Eight polling stations falling under the Lok Sabha segment of Dharmapuri and one booth under Tiruvallur Parliamentary constituency have been recommended for repolling, he said. Also, repolling has been recommended in one polling station falling under the Cuddalore Lok Sabha constituency. The CEO's comment assumes significance in the wake of alleged irregularities in a number of booths falling under these constituencies when the polling was held on April 18. In polling stations under the Lok Sabha segments of Dharmapuri and Tiruvallur, repolling has been recommended for both Parliamentary elections and bypolls to the Assembly seats of Pappireddipatti and Poonamallee. Tiruvallur Lok Sabha segment covers Poonamallee Assembly constituency and Dharmapuri includes Pappireddipatti Assembly seat. By-polls were held to 18 Assembly seats including Poonamallee and Pappireddipatti on April 18 along with polls to 38 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu. Polling for Vellore Lok Sabha constituency was rescinded following the seizure of cash ahead of the elections.

Lok Sabha polls: Repoll recommended in 10 polling stations in Tamil Nadu

The Congress party on Sunday released a list of five candidates for Lok Sabha elections in Haryana.

Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda will contest from Sonipat. Nirmal Singh is being fielded from Kurukshetra, Bhavya Bishnoi from Hisar, Kuldeep Sharma from Karnal and Avtar Singh Bhadana from Faridabad, in place of Lalit Nagar.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharatiya-janata-party-releases-list-of-candidates-for-delhi-punjab-mp-212380">the Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday released a list of candidates</a> for Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab.&nbsp;

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Congress releases list of 5 candidates for Lok Sabha elections in Haryana; Bhupinder Singh Hooda to contest from Sonipat, Nirmal Singh from Kurukshetra, Bhavya Bishnoi from Hisar, Kuldeep Sharma from Karnal and Avtar Singh Bhadana (in place of Lalit Nagar) from Faridabad <a href="https://t.co/wUVX34NKXu">pic.twitter.com/wUVX34NKXu</a>
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Four names were announced for Delhi and one candidate each for Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan will be contesting from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, singer and actor Manoj Tiwari from North East Delhi. Pravesh Verma will be contesting from West Delhi and Ramesh Bidhuri from South Delhi.

Delhi's seven Lok Sabha constituencies include Chandni Chowk, East Delhi, New Delhi, North East Delhi, North West Delhi, South Delhi and West Delhi.

Hardeep Singh Puri, current Union Minister of State, has been fielded to contest from Punjab's Amritsar.

In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP has fielded Shankar Lalwani as its candidate from Indore in place of Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan. In Uttar Pradesh, Shri Harinarayan Rajbhar has been fielded from Ghosi.

The Congress party on Sunday released a list of five candidates for Lok Sabha elections in Haryana. Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda will contest from Sonipat.

The Congress party on Sunday released a list of five candidates for Lok Sabha elections in Haryana. Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda will contest from Sonipat. Nirmal Singh is being fielded from Kurukshetra, Bhavya Bishnoi from Hisar, Kuldeep Sharma from Karnal and Avtar Singh Bhadana from Faridabad, in place of Lalit Nagar. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday released a list of candidates for Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab. Congress releases list of 5 candidates for Lok Sabha elections in Haryana; Bhupinder Singh Hooda to contest from Sonipat, Nirmal Singh from Kurukshetra, Bhavya Bishnoi from Hisar, Kuldeep Sharma from Karnal and Avtar Singh Bhadana (in place of Lalit Nagar) from Faridabad pic.twitter.com/wUVX34NKXu — ANI (@ANI) April 21, 2019 × Four names were announced for Delhi and one candidate each for Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan will be contesting from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, singer and actor Manoj Tiwari from North East Delhi. Pravesh Verma will be contesting from West Delhi and Ramesh Bidhuri from South Delhi. Delhi's seven Lok Sabha constituencies include Chandni Chowk, East Delhi, New Delhi, North East Delhi, North West Delhi, South Delhi and West Delhi. Hardeep Singh Puri, current Union Minister of State, has been fielded to contest from Punjab's Amritsar. In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP has fielded Shankar Lalwani as its candidate from Indore in place of Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan. In Uttar Pradesh, Shri Harinarayan Rajbhar has been fielded from Ghosi.

Lok Sabha polls: Congress releases list of candidates for Haryana, Bhupinder Singh Hooda to fight from Sonipat

Union Minister Piyush Goyal said that for next election Congress president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/not-here-to-make-false-promises-rahul-gandhi-in-kerala-211169">Rahul Gandhi </a>will have to find a seat in some neighbouring country because he is sure to face defeat in both the seats -<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-rahul-gandhis-temple-run-in-keralas-wayanad-211166"> Amethi and Wayanad </a>- he is contesting from in the ongoing polls."

In Amethi, Smriti Irani will defeat him (Rahul Gandhi) and he will also get defeated in Wayanad. He will have to find a seat in some neighbouring country for the next elections," said Goyal.

The BJP leader alleged that Rahul Gandhi doesn't have the courage to speak against the Left even though he is contesting against a CPI candidate in Wayanad.

"We have seen so many photos of Rahul Gandhi with Sitaram Yechury. He ran away to Wayanad when it appeared that he will get defeated by Smriti Irani in Amethi. In Wayanad, he is contesting against the Left but he says he will not criticise them. He is so afraid. In a democracy, if a leader does not have the courage to speak against his opponents, he will not be able to serve the country," said Goyal.

After filing his nomination from Wayanad earlier this month, Gandhi had said that he will not say a word against the CPM in his entire campaign. "I am here to send a message of unity," he had told reporters. The Left Democratic Front has fielded prominent CPI leader PP Suneer to contest against Gandhi.

Responding to senior Congress leader and former Maharashtra CM Prithviraj Chavan's remarks that the Prime Minister should not only apologise for nominating Pragya Thakur for the Bhopal seat but also withdraw her candidature, Goyal said, "I think Prithviraj Chavan should say sorry for Congress' shameful act of terming the Hindu community as 'terror' thereby defaming a whole community."Endorsing Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s recent remark that Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav`s "fake friendship" will end on May 23 when election results will be out, Goyal said that the SP-BSP leaders pretend unity on stage but things are different off stage.&nbsp;

"I can show you at least a hundred pictures of the last six months when sometimes they hug each other, sometimes they abuse each other.&nbsp; 
Sometimes they are seen on stage holding hands but they change their opinion when they step down," he said.&nbsp;

Rubbishing former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi's allegations that the government poses a danger to her jailed husband Lalu Prasad`s life, Goyal said: "No GST is imposed on allegations".

"Lalu Prasad is in jail because of the legal proceedings. He is accused of fodder scam and he must answer the people of the country. We have not kept him in jail," he added.&nbsp;

Expressing confidence in his party coming back to power with a huge margin, Goyal said, "In 2014, in order to make Gujarat Chief Minister a Prime Minister, we took him everywhere. Now the public wants him to be the Prime Minister again. The level of excitement in the public shows that we will win with a greater margin."&nbsp;

Union Minister Piyush Goyal said that for next election Congress president Rahul Gandhi will have to find a seat in some neighbouring country because he is sure to face defeat in both the seats - Amethi and Wayanad - he is contesting from in the ongoing polls.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal said that for next election Congress president Rahul Gandhi will have to find a seat in some neighbouring country because he is sure to face defeat in both the seats - Amethi and Wayanad - he is contesting from in the ongoing polls." In Amethi, Smriti Irani will defeat him (Rahul Gandhi) and he will also get defeated in Wayanad. He will have to find a seat in some neighbouring country for the next elections," said Goyal. The BJP leader alleged that Rahul Gandhi doesn't have the courage to speak against the Left even though he is contesting against a CPI candidate in Wayanad. "We have seen so many photos of Rahul Gandhi with Sitaram Yechury. He ran away to Wayanad when it appeared that he will get defeated by Smriti Irani in Amethi. In Wayanad, he is contesting against the Left but he says he will not criticise them. He is so afraid. In a democracy, if a leader does not have the courage to speak against his opponents, he will not be able to serve the country," said Goyal. After filing his nomination from Wayanad earlier this month, Gandhi had said that he will not say a word against the CPM in his entire campaign. "I am here to send a message of unity," he had told reporters. The Left Democratic Front has fielded prominent CPI leader PP Suneer to contest against Gandhi. Responding to senior Congress leader and former Maharashtra CM Prithviraj Chavan's remarks that the Prime Minister should not only apologise for nominating Pragya Thakur for the Bhopal seat but also withdraw her candidature, Goyal said, "I think Prithviraj Chavan should say sorry for Congress' shameful act of terming the Hindu community as 'terror' thereby defaming a whole community."Endorsing Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s recent remark that Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav`s "fake friendship" will end on May 23 when election results will be out, Goyal said that the SP-BSP leaders pretend unity on stage but things are different off stage. "I can show you at least a hundred pictures of the last six months when sometimes they hug each other, sometimes they abuse each other. Sometimes they are seen on stage holding hands but they change their opinion when they step down," he said. Rubbishing former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi's allegations that the government poses a danger to her jailed husband Lalu Prasad`s life, Goyal said: "No GST is imposed on allegations". "Lalu Prasad is in jail because of the legal proceedings. He is accused of fodder scam and he must answer the people of the country. We have not kept him in jail," he added. Expressing confidence in his party coming back to power with a huge margin, Goyal said, "In 2014, in order to make Gujarat Chief Minister a Prime Minister, we took him everywhere. Now the public wants him to be the Prime Minister again. The level of excitement in the public shows that we will win with a greater margin."

Rahul Gandhi will have to contest next election from a neighbouring country: Piyush Goyal

Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday released a list of candidates for four out of seven parliamentary seats in Delhi for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

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Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan will be contesting from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, singer and actor Manoj Tiwari from North East Delhi. Pravesh Verma will be contesting from West Delhi and Ramesh Bidhuri from South Delhi.

Delhi's seven Lok Sabha constituencies include Chandni Chowk, East Delhi, New Delhi, North East Delhi, North West Delhi, South Delhi and West Delhi.

The party, meanwhile, also released names of candidates from Punjab's Amritsar constituency, Madhya Pradesh's Indore and Uttar Pradesh's Ghosi constituency.

Hardeep Singh Puri, current Union Minister of State, has been fielded to contest from Amritsar.

In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP has fielded Shankar Lalwani as its candidate from Indore in place of Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan. Lalwani is the chairman of Indore Development Authority.

In Uttar Pradesh, Shri Harinarayan Rajbhar has been fielded from Ghosi.

The twenty-nine Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh will go to polls in four phases beginning April 29. Punjab will go to polls on May 19 for all thirteen constituencies. Delhi will go to polls on May 12.&nbsp;

The counting for all states will be done on May 23.

Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday released a list of candidates for four out of seven parliamentary seats in Delhi for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Bharatiya Janata Party releases list of candidates for Delhi, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and UP; Dr Harsh Vardhan to contest from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, Manoj Tiwari- North East Delhi, Pravesh Verma- West Delhi, Ramesh Bidhuri -South Delhi and Hardeep Puri from Amritsar pic.

Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday released a list of candidates for four out of seven parliamentary seats in Delhi for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Bharatiya Janata Party releases list of candidates for Delhi, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and UP; Dr Harsh Vardhan to contest from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, Manoj Tiwari- North East Delhi, Pravesh Verma- West Delhi, Ramesh Bidhuri -South Delhi and Hardeep Puri from Amritsar pic.twitter.com/VDaivg0A7n — ANI (@ANI) April 21, 2019 × Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan will be contesting from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, singer and actor Manoj Tiwari from North East Delhi. Pravesh Verma will be contesting from West Delhi and Ramesh Bidhuri from South Delhi. Delhi's seven Lok Sabha constituencies include Chandni Chowk, East Delhi, New Delhi, North East Delhi, North West Delhi, South Delhi and West Delhi. The party, meanwhile, also released names of candidates from Punjab's Amritsar constituency, Madhya Pradesh's Indore and Uttar Pradesh's Ghosi constituency. Hardeep Singh Puri, current Union Minister of State, has been fielded to contest from Amritsar. In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP has fielded Shankar Lalwani as its candidate from Indore in place of Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan. Lalwani is the chairman of Indore Development Authority. In Uttar Pradesh, Shri Harinarayan Rajbhar has been fielded from Ghosi. The twenty-nine Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh will go to polls in four phases beginning April 29. Punjab will go to polls on May 19 for all thirteen constituencies. Delhi will go to polls on May 12. The counting for all states will be done on May 23.

BJP releases list of candidates for Delhi, Harsh Vardhan to contest from Chandni Chowk

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Sunday blamed the Congress for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-aap-left-democratic-front-extend-support-to-each-other-212134">unsuccessful alliance talks</a> between the two parties, saying they tried hard but the Congress 'backtracked'.

"We tried very hard to forge an alliance with the Congress. We were ready to accept their every demand for Haryana and Punjab, but still, they backtracked. We cannot do anything more, the talks of alliance with Congress are over. We know, this will help BJP, but we simply don't have any choice left," said AAP leader Gopal Rai at a press conference here.

Rai also said the Congress is trying to divide the votes of the opposition, which will help the BJP. However, he expressed hope that the voters of Delhi will not pay any heed to the Congress and hand over a complete washout to the party like it did in 2015 assembly elections.

"By dividing votes of the opposition, like in Uttar Pradesh and other states too, the Congress wants to benefit BJP. Despite our best intentions, Congress has gone back to its old ways and seeking to snatch some votes from us in Delhi. But, the voters have now realized their tricks and will ensure their total wipeout from Delhi," Rai said.

A day earlier, Delhi deputy chief minister and AAP leader Manish Sisodia, signalled that the Congress'&nbsp;stance on seat-sharing was making the situation 'hopeless.'

Congress leader PC Chacko also had said that the alliance talks weren`t fruitful between the two parties.

After failing to convince the Congress to enter into an alliance, AAP will fight in Delhi on its own. However, it has entered into a coalition with Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) for elections in Haryana.

Both Delhi and Haryana will see voting in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections on May 12. The counting of votes will begin on May 23.&nbsp;

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Sunday blamed the Congress for unsuccessful alliance talks between the two parties, saying they tried hard but the Congress 'backtracked'.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Sunday blamed the Congress for unsuccessful alliance talks between the two parties, saying they tried hard but the Congress 'backtracked'. "We tried very hard to forge an alliance with the Congress. We were ready to accept their every demand for Haryana and Punjab, but still, they backtracked. We cannot do anything more, the talks of alliance with Congress are over. We know, this will help BJP, but we simply don't have any choice left," said AAP leader Gopal Rai at a press conference here. Rai also said the Congress is trying to divide the votes of the opposition, which will help the BJP. However, he expressed hope that the voters of Delhi will not pay any heed to the Congress and hand over a complete washout to the party like it did in 2015 assembly elections. "By dividing votes of the opposition, like in Uttar Pradesh and other states too, the Congress wants to benefit BJP. Despite our best intentions, Congress has gone back to its old ways and seeking to snatch some votes from us in Delhi. But, the voters have now realized their tricks and will ensure their total wipeout from Delhi," Rai said. A day earlier, Delhi deputy chief minister and AAP leader Manish Sisodia, signalled that the Congress' stance on seat-sharing was making the situation 'hopeless.' Congress leader PC Chacko also had said that the alliance talks weren`t fruitful between the two parties. After failing to convince the Congress to enter into an alliance, AAP will fight in Delhi on its own. However, it has entered into a coalition with Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) for elections in Haryana. Both Delhi and Haryana will see voting in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections on May 12. The counting of votes will begin on May 23.

AAP accuses Congress of 'backtracking' on alliance

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the Congress party was giving water to Pakistan, which was meant for India, and he promised to set up a separate ministry to address water-related issues.

"What is the Congress party's attitude towards water? The Congress party took a vote from you, but they kept giving the water of your share to Pakistan. You were thirsty and the Congress kept worrying about quenching Pakistan`s thirst," the Prime Minister said while addressing an election rally here.

"If the Congress had stopped the water from our share according to the Indus Waters Treaty flowing into Pakistan, then Rajasthan would not have had the water shortage. Now after so many years, our government has started working on a dam project to check the water going to Pakistan. In the coming time, you will get water of your right, not Pakistan," he said.

The Prime Minister announced that a separate ministry will be created for water if the BJP is voted to power after the ongoing elections.

"In the coming five years, we want to work in the field of water as we have done in the field of electricity. For water, we will create 'Jal Shakti Mantralay.' We will work towards giving water to drought-affected areas through technology including making use of seawater," he said.

Highlighting the success of BJP-led government, Prime Minister Modi said that his government emphasised on the skill, scale and speed in implementing welfare schemes.

"Our government not only started the schemes but also implemented them as well. Otherwise, we have seen such governments which started schemes but failed to implement these. Many schemes were pending for decades. This is why we emphasised on skill, scale and speed in our working culture," he said.

"Everyday 70,000 people are getting a free gas connection. Under Saubhagya scheme, around 50,000 houses are being electrified. Under the PM Awas Yojana, more than 11,000 houses are being constructed. Around 10,000 people are receiving treatment benefit under the Ayushman scheme," he said.

Modi also attacked Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot-led Congress government in the state for not waiving farm debts as promised by them during the Assembly elections.

"Big people had been crying here saying the farmers` debts will be waived off within 10 days after coming to power. Have the debts been waived off here? But it is being said everywhere that the debt of farmers in Rajasthan was waived off," he said.

Speaking further about farmers, he said,&nbsp;"Farmers have lathicharged for urea. In the past five years, no problem of urea was there in any part of the country. But as soon as the Congress formed the government here, the batteries of middlemen were charged again.

"Rajasthan, where 25 Parliamentary seats are at stake, will go to polls in the fourth and fifth phase on April 29 and May 6 respectively. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the Congress party was giving water to Pakistan, which was meant for India, and he promised to set up a separate ministry to address water-related issues.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the Congress party was giving water to Pakistan, which was meant for India, and he promised to set up a separate ministry to address water-related issues. "What is the Congress party's attitude towards water? The Congress party took a vote from you, but they kept giving the water of your share to Pakistan. You were thirsty and the Congress kept worrying about quenching Pakistan`s thirst," the Prime Minister said while addressing an election rally here. "If the Congress had stopped the water from our share according to the Indus Waters Treaty flowing into Pakistan, then Rajasthan would not have had the water shortage. Now after so many years, our government has started working on a dam project to check the water going to Pakistan. In the coming time, you will get water of your right, not Pakistan," he said. The Prime Minister announced that a separate ministry will be created for water if the BJP is voted to power after the ongoing elections. "In the coming five years, we want to work in the field of water as we have done in the field of electricity. For water, we will create 'Jal Shakti Mantralay.' We will work towards giving water to drought-affected areas through technology including making use of seawater," he said. Highlighting the success of BJP-led government, Prime Minister Modi said that his government emphasised on the skill, scale and speed in implementing welfare schemes. "Our government not only started the schemes but also implemented them as well. Otherwise, we have seen such governments which started schemes but failed to implement these. Many schemes were pending for decades. This is why we emphasised on skill, scale and speed in our working culture," he said. "Everyday 70,000 people are getting a free gas connection. Under Saubhagya scheme, around 50,000 houses are being electrified. Under the PM Awas Yojana, more than 11,000 houses are being constructed. Around 10,000 people are receiving treatment benefit under the Ayushman scheme," he said. Modi also attacked Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot-led Congress government in the state for not waiving farm debts as promised by them during the Assembly elections. "Big people had been crying here saying the farmers` debts will be waived off within 10 days after coming to power. Have the debts been waived off here? But it is being said everywhere that the debt of farmers in Rajasthan was waived off," he said. Speaking further about farmers, he said, "Farmers have lathicharged for urea. In the past five years, no problem of urea was there in any part of the country. But as soon as the Congress formed the government here, the batteries of middlemen were charged again. "Rajasthan, where 25 Parliamentary seats are at stake, will go to polls in the fourth and fifth phase on April 29 and May 6 respectively. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Congress was quenching Pakistan's thirst, will create separate ministry for water: PM Modi

National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate from Wayanad, T Vellappally, on Sunday asked Kerala Chief Electoral Officer to review Congress president Rahul Gandhi's nomination from the constituency.&nbsp;

Vellappally said that Rahul Gandhi, in his nomination, didn't mention that he possesses a passport of another country.

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"It's understood that Rahul Gandhi is having a passport of a foreign country also. He didn't disclose this in the nomination filed or in the affidavit," Vellappally told reporters.&nbsp;

"I request you to review the acceptance of the nomination of Rahul Gandhi in Wayanad constituency to check for validity and reject the application," he added.&nbsp;

Congress President Rahul Gandhi, who is contesting from Wayanad Lok Sabha seat in Kerala in addition to his traditional stronghold of Amethi in Uttar Pradesh, filed nomination for Wayanad earlier this month.

Gandhi was accompanied by his sister and AICC in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh Priyanka Gandhi and senior Congress leaders including K C Venugopal and Mukul Wasnik. He submitted the papers before the District Collector AR Ajayakumar at the district headquarters in Wayanad.

National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate from Wayanad, T Vellappally, on Sunday asked Kerala Chief Electoral Officer to review Congress president Rahul Gandhi's nomination from the constituency.

National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate from Wayanad, T Vellappally, on Sunday asked Kerala Chief Electoral Officer to review Congress president Rahul Gandhi's nomination from the constituency. Vellappally said that Rahul Gandhi, in his nomination, didn't mention that he possesses a passport of another country. Wayanad NDA candidate T Vellappally further writes "I request you to review the acceptance of nomination of Rahul Gandhi in Wayanad constituency to check for validity & reject the application." https://t.co/TllobUSFUn — ANI (@ANI) April 21, 2019 × "It's understood that Rahul Gandhi is having a passport of a foreign country also. He didn't disclose this in the nomination filed or in the affidavit," Vellappally told reporters. "I request you to review the acceptance of the nomination of Rahul Gandhi in Wayanad constituency to check for validity and reject the application," he added. Congress President Rahul Gandhi, who is contesting from Wayanad Lok Sabha seat in Kerala in addition to his traditional stronghold of Amethi in Uttar Pradesh, filed nomination for Wayanad earlier this month. Gandhi was accompanied by his sister and AICC in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh Priyanka Gandhi and senior Congress leaders including K C Venugopal and Mukul Wasnik. He submitted the papers before the District Collector AR Ajayakumar at the district headquarters in Wayanad.

Lok Sabha polls: NDA's Wayanad candidate demands review of Rahul Gandhi's nomination from constituency

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday said that she will contest the Lok Sabha election from Varanasi against Prime Minister Narendra Modi if the party president Rahul Gandhi asks her to do so.

Speaking to media here on Sunday, Priyanka while replying to whether she will be contesting from Varanasi, said, "If the Congress president asks me to contest, I will be happy to contest."

Earlier Priyanka Gandhi met the family members of Pulwama terror attack martyr VV Vasant Kumar in Makkamkunnu.

The Congress leader interacted with the family members of Kumar for quite some time who lost his life in Pulwama terror attack on February 24, in which 40 CRPF jawans lost their lives after a suicide bomber of Pak-based terror outfit JeM rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into their convoy in south Kashmir.

Before meeting the martyr's family, Gandhi also expressed her condolences for the victims of serial bomb blasts in Sri Lanka, which took place earlier in the day. "People were celebrating a day of happiness, but now they are in immense grief. My condolences to all of them and support to all their families," she said.&nbsp;

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday said that she will contest the Lok Sabha election from Varanasi against Prime Minister Narendra Modi if the party president Rahul Gandhi asks her to do so.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday said that she will contest the Lok Sabha election from Varanasi against Prime Minister Narendra Modi if the party president Rahul Gandhi asks her to do so. Speaking to media here on Sunday, Priyanka while replying to whether she will be contesting from Varanasi, said, "If the Congress president asks me to contest, I will be happy to contest." Earlier Priyanka Gandhi met the family members of Pulwama terror attack martyr VV Vasant Kumar in Makkamkunnu. The Congress leader interacted with the family members of Kumar for quite some time who lost his life in Pulwama terror attack on February 24, in which 40 CRPF jawans lost their lives after a suicide bomber of Pak-based terror outfit JeM rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into their convoy in south Kashmir. Before meeting the martyr's family, Gandhi also expressed her condolences for the victims of serial bomb blasts in Sri Lanka, which took place earlier in the day. "People were celebrating a day of happiness, but now they are in immense grief. My condolences to all of them and support to all their families," she said.

Will contest from Varanasi if Rahul Gandhi asks me: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra

Claiming that officers sent by the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fully-within-rights-to-transfer-officials-during-polls-election-commission-tells-mamata-banerjee-208548&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiL9Kq7mOHhAhUIv48KHb2EB3oQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2fuPDz3ZHuYaGmZvo9m_5G">Election Commission</a> as special observers are abusing and insulting the people of West Bengal, Trinamool Congress supremo<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/opinions/lok-sabha-polls-2019-mamata-banerjees-dominance-mayawatis-reluctance-is-advantage-bjp-209214&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwi2zuLbl-HhAhXMPo8KHU1OA48QFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2PxWZl6lUovt7YvGVIhDem"> Mamata Banerjee</a> on Sunday accused the BJP of trying to run a parallel government in the state.

The chief minister also alleged that the poll panel has deputed the two retired officers to run the government in Bengal.

"The officers are abusing and insulting the people of the state," she said, reacting to Special Observer Ajay V Nayak's observation that the situation in Bengal is similar to what it was in Bihar around 10 to 15 years ago.

The people have lost faith in the state police, and therefore, their demand for deployment of central forces at all polling booths has increased, Nayak, a former chief electoral officer of Bihar, said on Saturday.

"The BJP is trying to run a parallel govt in the state," she said, adding, "Two retired officers have been sent to run the government, this is unconstitutional. They are trying to help the BJP."

Banerjee said that in 2016, assembly elections were held with the deployment of central forces in all the booths, but that did not deter her party from registering a resounding victory.

Alleging that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Mann ki Baat' addresses were full of falsehood, the CM said that he spoke the language of the RSS on the radio over the last five years.

"The prime minister's position has a stature, I have never seen a person stoop so low," she said, addressing two election rallies in Nadia district.

Claiming that lakhs of migrant labourers lost their jobs due to demonetisation, she said, "You had done notebandi, people will do votebandi."

She alleged that labourers from Bengal were killed and subjected to violence in the then BJP-ruled Rajasthan and other places, leading to their mass return out of fear of persecution.

Banerjee accused the Modi government of depriving West Bengal in the last five years. "Every day, he is resorting to lies. They are seasonal birds, who come during elections only and vanish after the polls," she said.

Asserting that she faced several vilification bids throughout her political career, the CM said, "I don't care if someone calls me a thief".

Banerjee added that she has written 87 books and a number of songs, royalties from which are enough for her sustenance.

Neither the BJP nor the Congress will win the general elections. Instead, friendly regional parties will form the government at the Centre, she said.

"The BJP, the Congress and the CPI(M), who are all brothers in arms, will become mere signboards... After the elections," Banerjee said.&nbsp;

Claiming that officers sent by the Election Commission as special observers are abusing and insulting the people of West Bengal, Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee on Sunday accused the BJP of trying to run a parallel government in the state.

Claiming that officers sent by the Election Commission as special observers are abusing and insulting the people of West Bengal, Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee on Sunday accused the BJP of trying to run a parallel government in the state. The chief minister also alleged that the poll panel has deputed the two retired officers to run the government in Bengal. "The officers are abusing and insulting the people of the state," she said, reacting to Special Observer Ajay V Nayak's observation that the situation in Bengal is similar to what it was in Bihar around 10 to 15 years ago. The people have lost faith in the state police, and therefore, their demand for deployment of central forces at all polling booths has increased, Nayak, a former chief electoral officer of Bihar, said on Saturday. "The BJP is trying to run a parallel govt in the state," she said, adding, "Two retired officers have been sent to run the government, this is unconstitutional. They are trying to help the BJP." Banerjee said that in 2016, assembly elections were held with the deployment of central forces in all the booths, but that did not deter her party from registering a resounding victory. Alleging that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Mann ki Baat' addresses were full of falsehood, the CM said that he spoke the language of the RSS on the radio over the last five years. "The prime minister's position has a stature, I have never seen a person stoop so low," she said, addressing two election rallies in Nadia district. Claiming that lakhs of migrant labourers lost their jobs due to demonetisation, she said, "You had done notebandi, people will do votebandi." She alleged that labourers from Bengal were killed and subjected to violence in the then BJP-ruled Rajasthan and other places, leading to their mass return out of fear of persecution. Banerjee accused the Modi government of depriving West Bengal in the last five years. "Every day, he is resorting to lies. They are seasonal birds, who come during elections only and vanish after the polls," she said. Asserting that she faced several vilification bids throughout her political career, the CM said, "I don't care if someone calls me a thief". Banerjee added that she has written 87 books and a number of songs, royalties from which are enough for her sustenance. Neither the BJP nor the Congress will win the general elections. Instead, friendly regional parties will form the government at the Centre, she said. "The BJP, the Congress and the CPI(M), who are all brothers in arms, will become mere signboards... After the elections," Banerjee said.

Election Commision special observers abusing people of West Bengal: Mamata Banerjee

Campaigning for the third and final phase of polling in four Lok Sabha seats of Assam ended at 4 PM on Sunday.

Polling will be held in Kokrajhar (ST), Dhubri, Barpeta and Gauhati constituencies on Tuesday to decide the fate of 54 candidates, including nine women.

The ruling BJP concentrated on the initiatives taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to develop Assam and the Northeastern region, including the inauguration of three bridges in the state.

The opposition Congress and other parties highlighted the BJP's attempt to bring in the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and the alleged failure of the Modi government to fulfill the promises made before the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

Campaigning for the third phase was relatively low key though Prime Minister Narendra Modi campaigned for the BJP's Gauhati candidate Queen Oja on April 11. Most of the campaigning was done by state unit leaders.

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and BJP state president Ranjeet Dass, Assam

Pradesh Congress president Ripun Bora, leader of the opposition in the state assembly Debabrata Saikia participated in the campaign trail.

The highlight of the third phase campaign was the road shows by candidates of different parties.

State minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stole the show in most of the meetings and road shows with his dance moves on BJP's theme song 'Akou Ebar Modi Sarkar' (Modi Sarkar, once more), sung by popular Assamese singer Simanta Shekhar.

The campaign for this phase was mostly characterised by public rallies, roadside meetings and door-to-door visits.

There are two sitting MPs-AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal in Dhubri and independent Naba Sarania in Kokrajhar- besides state social welfare minister Pramila Rani Brahma of the BPF in Kokrajhar and Congress MLA Abdul Khaleque in the fray.

An electorate of 77,0622, including 38,15,335 men, 36,61,570 women and 157 of the third gender, will be eligible to exercise their franchise in 9,577 polling booths.&nbsp;

Campaigning for the third and final phase of polling in four Lok Sabha seats of Assam ended at 4 PM on Sunday. Polling will be held in Kokrajhar (ST), Dhubri, Barpeta and Gauhati constituencies on Tuesday to decide the fate of 54 candidates, including nine women.

Campaigning for the third and final phase of polling in four Lok Sabha seats of Assam ended at 4 PM on Sunday. Polling will be held in Kokrajhar (ST), Dhubri, Barpeta and Gauhati constituencies on Tuesday to decide the fate of 54 candidates, including nine women. The ruling BJP concentrated on the initiatives taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to develop Assam and the Northeastern region, including the inauguration of three bridges in the state. The opposition Congress and other parties highlighted the BJP's attempt to bring in the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and the alleged failure of the Modi government to fulfill the promises made before the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. Campaigning for the third phase was relatively low key though Prime Minister Narendra Modi campaigned for the BJP's Gauhati candidate Queen Oja on April 11. Most of the campaigning was done by state unit leaders. Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and BJP state president Ranjeet Dass, Assam Pradesh Congress president Ripun Bora, leader of the opposition in the state assembly Debabrata Saikia participated in the campaign trail. The highlight of the third phase campaign was the road shows by candidates of different parties. State minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stole the show in most of the meetings and road shows with his dance moves on BJP's theme song 'Akou Ebar Modi Sarkar' (Modi Sarkar, once more), sung by popular Assamese singer Simanta Shekhar. The campaign for this phase was mostly characterised by public rallies, roadside meetings and door-to-door visits. There are two sitting MPs-AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal in Dhubri and independent Naba Sarania in Kokrajhar- besides state social welfare minister Pramila Rani Brahma of the BPF in Kokrajhar and Congress MLA Abdul Khaleque in the fray. An electorate of 77,0622, including 38,15,335 men, 36,61,570 women and 157 of the third gender, will be eligible to exercise their franchise in 9,577 polling booths.

Campaign ends for third phase polling in Assam

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said he had warned Pakistan of consequences if it had not returned Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman.

Addressing a poll rally at Patan in his home state Gujarat, he also took a jibe at NCP leader Sharad Pawar, saying if he is unaware of his next move, then how Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan can gauge what he will do.

Following the air strike at Balakot terror camp in Pakistan, there was a dogfight between Indian and Pakistani fighter planes on February 27 in which IAF Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was captured by the neighbouring country.

Before his jet was hit, the IAF pilot downed an F-16 fighter of Pakistan. He was released on the night of March 1 by Pakistan.

Referring to it, Modi said after the pilot was caught, the opposition started seeking a reply from him over this.

"We conducted a press conference and warned Pakistan that if anything happened to our pilot, you will keep telling the world that Modi did this to you," he said.

"A senior American official said on the second day that Modi has kept ready 12 missiles and might attack and the situation will deteriorate. Pakistan announced to return the pilot on the second day, else it was going to be a "qatal ki raat'," Modi said.

"This was said by America, I have nothing to say about this now, I will speak about it when the time will come," he added.

Asserting his government's commitment towards national security, Modi said whether the prime minister's chair remains or not, he has decided that either he will be alive or terrorists will remain alive.

He also took a swipe at Pawar, who on Saturday said he was "terribly afraid" as to what Modi, who once called Pawar his mentor in politics, would do next.

"Sharad Pawar says I don't know what will Modi do. If he is unaware of what Modi will do tomorrow, how will Imran Khan know? Modi said.

The prime minister also appealed to people of Gujarat to make the BJP victorious on all 26 Lok Sabha seats in the state, where polling will be held on Tuesday.

"It is the duty of people of my home state to take care of the 'son of the soil', give all 26 seats in Gujarat to me," he said.

"My government will come back to power for sure, but if Gujarat doesn't give 26 seats (to BJP), the TV discussions on May 23 will be why it happened?" he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said he had warned Pakistan of consequences if it had not returned Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman. Addressing a poll rally at Patan in his home state Gujarat, he also took a jibe at NCP leader Sharad Pawar, saying if he is unaware of his next move, then how Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan can gauge what he will do.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said he had warned Pakistan of consequences if it had not returned Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman. Addressing a poll rally at Patan in his home state Gujarat, he also took a jibe at NCP leader Sharad Pawar, saying if he is unaware of his next move, then how Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan can gauge what he will do. Following the air strike at Balakot terror camp in Pakistan, there was a dogfight between Indian and Pakistani fighter planes on February 27 in which IAF Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was captured by the neighbouring country. Before his jet was hit, the IAF pilot downed an F-16 fighter of Pakistan. He was released on the night of March 1 by Pakistan. Referring to it, Modi said after the pilot was caught, the opposition started seeking a reply from him over this. "We conducted a press conference and warned Pakistan that if anything happened to our pilot, you will keep telling the world that Modi did this to you," he said. "A senior American official said on the second day that Modi has kept ready 12 missiles and might attack and the situation will deteriorate. Pakistan announced to return the pilot on the second day, else it was going to be a "qatal ki raat'," Modi said. "This was said by America, I have nothing to say about this now, I will speak about it when the time will come," he added. Asserting his government's commitment towards national security, Modi said whether the prime minister's chair remains or not, he has decided that either he will be alive or terrorists will remain alive. He also took a swipe at Pawar, who on Saturday said he was "terribly afraid" as to what Modi, who once called Pawar his mentor in politics, would do next. "Sharad Pawar says I don't know what will Modi do. If he is unaware of what Modi will do tomorrow, how will Imran Khan know? Modi said. The prime minister also appealed to people of Gujarat to make the BJP victorious on all 26 Lok Sabha seats in the state, where polling will be held on Tuesday. "It is the duty of people of my home state to take care of the 'son of the soil', give all 26 seats in Gujarat to me," he said. "My government will come back to power for sure, but if Gujarat doesn't give 26 seats (to BJP), the TV discussions on May 23 will be why it happened?" he said.

Had warned Pakistan of consequences if pilot not returned: PM Modi

An FIR has been registered at LT Marg Police Station against Mumbai Congress president Milind Deora for violating Model Code of Conduct (MCC), police said on Sunday.

This comes two days after the Maharashtra State Election had asked LT Marg police to file an FIR against Deora after his comments on the Jain community were found "false and religiously sensitive".

The EC looked into the matter after it received a complaint from a Shiv Sena leader. On April 4, Deora, while addressing an event at Zhaveri Bazar, had accused Shiv Sena of hurting religious sentiments of Jain followers.

The Mumbai Congress president urged the community to teach them a lesson by not voting for the party in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

"Shiv Sena has been against the minorities. A few years ago, the party insulted the Jain religion by cooking meat outside Jain temples during Paryushana festival. Remember, you have to teach them a lesson through your votes," he had said at an event.

The FIR has been registered under section 171 of Indian Penal Code (giving a false statement for elections) and section 125 of the Representation of People Act (RPA), 1951 ( promoting enmity between classes in connection with elections).

Speaking to ANI, Advocate Dharmendra Mishra, who is a complainant in the case, said,&nbsp;"We complained to Ashwin Kumar who is a collector and returning officer. By taking a Suo Motu action in the matter, he has proved that the MCC is not a toothless law."

"It does not matter how big politician you are, if you violate poll conduct then action will be taken against you. I have been registering complaints for the past four years in the cases of MCC violation. But for the first time, an action has been taken against a politician," he said.

Mishra further said that he has also a complaint against Congress as he has taken full advantage of his political legacy.

"A defamation case has been filed against Deora in the court, which is scheduled to be heard on Monday," he said.

"Jain people were targeted by Deora to take advantage in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. A private complaint has been filed by me under section 153 A of the RPA (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion," advocate Sunny Jain told ANI.

"I have an appeal to all politicians to not contest elections on religious sentiments but on their work and productivity," he said.

Paryushana, an annual event where Jain community observes fast for a period of eight days, is usually celebrated in August or September.

The Lok Sabha polls for 48 parliamentary seats in Maharashtra began on April 11. It has been staggered in four phases till April 29.

The results will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

An FIR has been registered at LT Marg Police Station against Mumbai Congress president Milind Deora for violating Model Code of Conduct (MCC), police said on Sunday.

An FIR has been registered at LT Marg Police Station against Mumbai Congress president Milind Deora for violating Model Code of Conduct (MCC), police said on Sunday. This comes two days after the Maharashtra State Election had asked LT Marg police to file an FIR against Deora after his comments on the Jain community were found "false and religiously sensitive". The EC looked into the matter after it received a complaint from a Shiv Sena leader. On April 4, Deora, while addressing an event at Zhaveri Bazar, had accused Shiv Sena of hurting religious sentiments of Jain followers. The Mumbai Congress president urged the community to teach them a lesson by not voting for the party in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. "Shiv Sena has been against the minorities. A few years ago, the party insulted the Jain religion by cooking meat outside Jain temples during Paryushana festival. Remember, you have to teach them a lesson through your votes," he had said at an event. The FIR has been registered under section 171 of Indian Penal Code (giving a false statement for elections) and section 125 of the Representation of People Act (RPA), 1951 ( promoting enmity between classes in connection with elections). Speaking to ANI, Advocate Dharmendra Mishra, who is a complainant in the case, said, "We complained to Ashwin Kumar who is a collector and returning officer. By taking a Suo Motu action in the matter, he has proved that the MCC is not a toothless law." "It does not matter how big politician you are, if you violate poll conduct then action will be taken against you. I have been registering complaints for the past four years in the cases of MCC violation. But for the first time, an action has been taken against a politician," he said. Mishra further said that he has also a complaint against Congress as he has taken full advantage of his political legacy. "A defamation case has been filed against Deora in the court, which is scheduled to be heard on Monday," he said. "Jain people were targeted by Deora to take advantage in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. A private complaint has been filed by me under section 153 A of the RPA (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion," advocate Sunny Jain told ANI. "I have an appeal to all politicians to not contest elections on religious sentiments but on their work and productivity," he said. Paryushana, an annual event where Jain community observes fast for a period of eight days, is usually celebrated in August or September. The Lok Sabha polls for 48 parliamentary seats in Maharashtra began on April 11. It has been staggered in four phases till April 29. The results will be declared on May 23.

Maharashtra: FIR filed against Milind Deora for violating Model Code of Conduct

Supporters of Congress leader Raj Kumar Chauhan gathered outside the residence on party chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=rahul+gandhi">Rahul Gandhi</a> on Sunday to express dissent over the party's alleged denial of a ticket to Chauhan to contest in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/elections">Lok Sabha polls</a>.&nbsp;

The protests come after media reports suggested that Congress will give Chauhan's ticket to Delhi Congress working president Rajesh Lilothia to contest from North West Delhi.&nbsp;

However, Congress is yet to declare its candidates for the seven seats at stake in Delhi.&nbsp;

"Chauhan has gathered all the workers and was doing electioneering in full swing. They have informed voters that Chauhan will be contesting from their constituency. What will be done now? I do not understand why the party at the last minute has changed its decision," a protester told ANI.&nbsp;

"We will not going to work for any another candidate. We came to know that Rajesh Lilothia will be given his ticket. Lilothia does not stay here and has no connection with the place. We will only campaign for Chauhan and will not work for any other candidate," said another protester.

Delhi will go to polls on May 12, and counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Supporters of Congress leader Raj Kumar Chauhan gathered outside the residence on party chief Rahul Gandhi on Sunday to express dissent over the party's alleged denial of a ticket to Chauhan to contest in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

Supporters of Congress leader Raj Kumar Chauhan gathered outside the residence on party chief Rahul Gandhi on Sunday to express dissent over the party's alleged denial of a ticket to Chauhan to contest in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. The protests come after media reports suggested that Congress will give Chauhan's ticket to Delhi Congress working president Rajesh Lilothia to contest from North West Delhi. However, Congress is yet to declare its candidates for the seven seats at stake in Delhi. "Chauhan has gathered all the workers and was doing electioneering in full swing. They have informed voters that Chauhan will be contesting from their constituency. What will be done now? I do not understand why the party at the last minute has changed its decision," a protester told ANI. "We will not going to work for any another candidate. We came to know that Rajesh Lilothia will be given his ticket. Lilothia does not stay here and has no connection with the place. We will only campaign for Chauhan and will not work for any other candidate," said another protester. Delhi will go to polls on May 12, and counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Supporters of Raj Kumar Chauhan protest outside Rahul Gandhi's residence

Tear my son's clothes if he does not deliver, says Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath as he campaigns for his son Nakul who is fighting his first elections from Chhindwara.

Invoking his 40-year-old association with the region, Nath says he has now entrusted the task to serve the people of Chhindwara to his son so that he can work for Madhya Pradesh.

"I am where I am because of the love and strength you gave me," Nath says.

"Nakul is not here today but he will serve you. I have given him the responsibility. Take him to task and tear his clothes if he does not deliver," the 72-year-old Congress leader told the locals.

He was speaking at an election rally on Saturday in Dhanora village which comes under the Amarwada assembly seat, about 65 kms from Chhindwara district headquarters.

"We will start a new journey and create history," he told the locals.

Nath has been the longest-serving Member of Parliament (MP) from this Lok Sabha constituency as he served for nine terms and he has now vacated the seat for his son.

The chief minister is also contesting bypoll in the Chhindwara assembly constituency as per the legal requirement of being a member of legislative assembly (MLA) for running the state government.

Nath says due to his efforts the district has a "distinct identity" when it comes to development.

He hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his promises of ensuring Rs 15 lakh in every Indian citizen's bank account, steps against blackmoney and the decision of demonetisation were just "gimmicks and frauds".

"They (Modi and Chouhan) scream we did this, we did that but tell me if they did anything for you?" Nath says, alleging that the two leaders misled the people.

"I want to tell Modiji that while there are no 'acche din' (good days) for the common man, his (Modi's) days are going to end soon," he says.

Modi "harassed" every section of society and under BJP government's watch, farmers in Madhya Pradesh were shot at and their livelihood was hit too, Nath alleged.

Hitting out at the previous BJP government in the state, he charged they "kicked the farmer in the stomach and pointed a gun at his chest".

The chief minister says his government in the state has shown its intent by delivering on the promises made before the 2018 assembly polls.

"As promised, we initiated waiver of loans of the farmers as soon as we took charge in Bhopal and till now I have done so for 22 lakh farmers. Thirty-eight lakh more farmers will be benefitted soon who have a loan of up to Rs 2 lakh," he says.

"We have done the loan waiver in 35-40 per cent cases and I promise it will be done in 100 per cent cases soon," he says.

Nath says the new Congress government in the state has also reduced the cost incurred by poor people to pay electricity bills.

Chhindwara will vote on April 29 along with the single bypoll for the constituency.

In the last general elections, the BJP had won 26 and the Congress secured three seats.

Tear my son's clothes if he does not deliver, says Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath as he campaigns for his son Nakul who is fighting his first elections from Chhindwara.

Tear my son's clothes if he does not deliver, says Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath as he campaigns for his son Nakul who is fighting his first elections from Chhindwara. Invoking his 40-year-old association with the region, Nath says he has now entrusted the task to serve the people of Chhindwara to his son so that he can work for Madhya Pradesh. "I am where I am because of the love and strength you gave me," Nath says. "Nakul is not here today but he will serve you. I have given him the responsibility. Take him to task and tear his clothes if he does not deliver," the 72-year-old Congress leader told the locals. He was speaking at an election rally on Saturday in Dhanora village which comes under the Amarwada assembly seat, about 65 kms from Chhindwara district headquarters. "We will start a new journey and create history," he told the locals. Nath has been the longest-serving Member of Parliament (MP) from this Lok Sabha constituency as he served for nine terms and he has now vacated the seat for his son. The chief minister is also contesting bypoll in the Chhindwara assembly constituency as per the legal requirement of being a member of legislative assembly (MLA) for running the state government. Nath says due to his efforts the district has a "distinct identity" when it comes to development. He hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his promises of ensuring Rs 15 lakh in every Indian citizen's bank account, steps against blackmoney and the decision of demonetisation were just "gimmicks and frauds". "They (Modi and Chouhan) scream we did this, we did that but tell me if they did anything for you?" Nath says, alleging that the two leaders misled the people. "I want to tell Modiji that while there are no 'acche din' (good days) for the common man, his (Modi's) days are going to end soon," he says. Modi "harassed" every section of society and under BJP government's watch, farmers in Madhya Pradesh were shot at and their livelihood was hit too, Nath alleged. Hitting out at the previous BJP government in the state, he charged they "kicked the farmer in the stomach and pointed a gun at his chest". The chief minister says his government in the state has shown its intent by delivering on the promises made before the 2018 assembly polls. "As promised, we initiated waiver of loans of the farmers as soon as we took charge in Bhopal and till now I have done so for 22 lakh farmers. Thirty-eight lakh more farmers will be benefitted soon who have a loan of up to Rs 2 lakh," he says. "We have done the loan waiver in 35-40 per cent cases and I promise it will be done in 100 per cent cases soon," he says. Nath says the new Congress government in the state has also reduced the cost incurred by poor people to pay electricity bills. Chhindwara will vote on April 29 along with the single bypoll for the constituency. In the last general elections, the BJP had won 26 and the Congress secured three seats.

Tear my son's clothes, take him to task if he does not deliver: Kamal Nath

Bhopal District Election Officer on Sunday issued a notice to BJP Lok Sabha candidate Pragya Singh Thakur and sought explanation within a day for her remark on the demolition of Babri Masjid in Ayodhya.

Earlier in the day, Thakur had said,&nbsp;"I will go to construct the Ram Temple. I have said it yesterday and I am not denying it that I had gone there. I have demolished Babri structure. He is my Ram ji and no one can stop me from making a grand Ram Temple. The nation is Ram, Ram is a nation."

The Babri Masjid, built by Mughal emperor Babur in 1578 in Ayodhya, was on December 6, 1992, pulled down allegedly by a group of Hindu activists, claiming that the mosque was constructed after demolishing a Ram temple that stood there.

On Saturday, the EC had issued a notice to Pragya for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct by her comments on former Mumbai ATS chief late Hemant Karkare.

Thakur had said earlier that Karkare lost his life because she had cursed him.

"I called Hemant Karkare and asked him to let me go if there is no evidence (against me). He (Karkare) said that he will bring evidence but will not leave me. I told him -- You will be ruined," Thakur had said.&nbsp;

Bhopal District Election Officer on Sunday issued a notice to BJP Lok Sabha candidate Pragya Singh Thakur and sought explanation within a day for her remark on the demolition of Babri Masjid in Ayodhya.

Bhopal District Election Officer on Sunday issued a notice to BJP Lok Sabha candidate Pragya Singh Thakur and sought explanation within a day for her remark on the demolition of Babri Masjid in Ayodhya. Earlier in the day, Thakur had said, "I will go to construct the Ram Temple. I have said it yesterday and I am not denying it that I had gone there. I have demolished Babri structure. He is my Ram ji and no one can stop me from making a grand Ram Temple. The nation is Ram, Ram is a nation." The Babri Masjid, built by Mughal emperor Babur in 1578 in Ayodhya, was on December 6, 1992, pulled down allegedly by a group of Hindu activists, claiming that the mosque was constructed after demolishing a Ram temple that stood there. On Saturday, the EC had issued a notice to Pragya for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct by her comments on former Mumbai ATS chief late Hemant Karkare. Thakur had said earlier that Karkare lost his life because she had cursed him. "I called Hemant Karkare and asked him to let me go if there is no evidence (against me). He (Karkare) said that he will bring evidence but will not leave me. I told him -- You will be ruined," Thakur had said.

Bhopal Election Officer issues notice to Pragya Thakur over her Babri Masjid remark

Prime Minister Modi on Saturday targetted Mamata Banerjee and said West Bengal chief minister has fooled people in the name of 'Maa, Mati and Manush'.

Modi, who was addressing a rally in&nbsp;Buniadpur, South Dinajpur district attacked the TMC leader&nbsp;over the campaigning of Bangladeshi film star Ferdous Ahmed.

"It is shameful that people from neighbouring country are campaigning for the TMC, which was done to appease the minority community," Modi said.

The BJP had earlier claimed that the Trinamool Congress was trying to consolidate minority votes for the Lok Sabha elections by roping in famous Bangladeshi actors.

45-year-old Ferdous Ahmed, a Bangladeshi film star was reportedly seen seeking votes for a TMC candidate at campaign rallies across Hemtabad and Karandighi near the Indo-Bangladesh border.

Another Bangladeshi actor Ghazi Abdul was also seen taking part in a political rally in West Bengal. As per reports, Noor attended a political rally in Dumdum, West Bengal. His visa had also expired.&nbsp;

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PM Modi addressing a rally at Buniadpur, West Bengal: Kya kabhi Hindustan mein aisa hua hai ki duniya ke kisi desh ke log aa karke Bharat mein chunaav prachar kare? Apne vote bank ke liye, tushtikaran ke liye, Didi kisi bhi hadd tak jaane ke liye tayar hai. <a href="https://t.co/0tE2ypJoHf">pic.twitter.com/0tE2ypJoHf</a>
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Modi also criticised Banerjee for seeking proof of the Balakot air strikes in Pakistan and asked her to, instead, collect evidence against those behind chit fund scams.&nbsp;

"Mamata Banerjee should seek proof against those behind chit fund scams, instead of asking for proof of the Balakot strike,".

Recalling the death of a BJP worker in Purulia, West Bengal, PM Modi assured justice to the party workers and people of the state.

"In Purulia, a BJP worker was murdered. I want to assure each West Bengal BJP worker and people of the state that justice will be done. Strict action will be taken against those people who are responsible, ".

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Modi on Saturday targetted Mamata Banerjee and said West Bengal chief minister has fooled people in the name of 'Maa, Mati and Manush'. Modi, who was addressing a rally in Buniadpur, South Dinajpur district attacked the TMC leader over the campaigning of Bangladeshi film star Ferdous Ahmed.

Prime Minister Modi on Saturday targetted Mamata Banerjee and said West Bengal chief minister has fooled people in the name of 'Maa, Mati and Manush'. Modi, who was addressing a rally in Buniadpur, South Dinajpur district attacked the TMC leader over the campaigning of Bangladeshi film star Ferdous Ahmed. "It is shameful that people from neighbouring country are campaigning for the TMC, which was done to appease the minority community," Modi said. The BJP had earlier claimed that the Trinamool Congress was trying to consolidate minority votes for the Lok Sabha elections by roping in famous Bangladeshi actors. 45-year-old Ferdous Ahmed, a Bangladeshi film star was reportedly seen seeking votes for a TMC candidate at campaign rallies across Hemtabad and Karandighi near the Indo-Bangladesh border. Another Bangladeshi actor Ghazi Abdul was also seen taking part in a political rally in West Bengal. As per reports, Noor attended a political rally in Dumdum, West Bengal. His visa had also expired. PM Modi addressing a rally at Buniadpur, West Bengal: Kya kabhi Hindustan mein aisa hua hai ki duniya ke kisi desh ke log aa karke Bharat mein chunaav prachar kare? Apne vote bank ke liye, tushtikaran ke liye, Didi kisi bhi hadd tak jaane ke liye tayar hai. pic.twitter.com/0tE2ypJoHf — ANI (@ANI) April 20, 2019 × Modi also criticised Banerjee for seeking proof of the Balakot air strikes in Pakistan and asked her to, instead, collect evidence against those behind chit fund scams. "Mamata Banerjee should seek proof against those behind chit fund scams, instead of asking for proof of the Balakot strike,". Recalling the death of a BJP worker in Purulia, West Bengal, PM Modi assured justice to the party workers and people of the state. "In Purulia, a BJP worker was murdered. I want to assure each West Bengal BJP worker and people of the state that justice will be done. Strict action will be taken against those people who are responsible, ". (With inputs from agencies)

Mamata fooled people in name of 'Maa, Mati and Manush': PM Modi in West Bengal

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has dismissed the opposition`s claim that law and order situation was not conducive for holding polls in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/polls-in-tripura-east-deferrd-to-april-23-211398">Tripura East Lok Sabha constituency</a>, where the polling was deferred from April 18 to April 23.

In a letter to the Election Commission on Friday, the BJP stated that a "false picture is being portrayed by the Congress and CPI-M with a view to mislead the Commission by attributing false allegations against the BJP."

The party said that no complaints were lodged with the police or the EC after elections were held in one of the two Tripura parliamentary constituencies in the first phase of Lok Sabha polls.

"The CEO on April 11 made a public statement that our general reports from all the observers are that it has been free and fair broadly," the letter stated.

The BJP apprised the EC that 82.97 per cent of polling was recorded during the first phase of ongoing general elections when West Tripura constituency went to polls on April 11, thereby showing the highest level of enthusiasm among the voters of the state who voted without fear or intimidation, and central forces were adequately deployed.

Accusing the Congress and CPI-M of levelling such allegations, the party said, "Despite these attempts by opposition parties such as CPI-M and Congress to flare communal tensions, they have been unsuccessful. The ruling BJP government has successfully ensured a harmonious co-existence between all groups and communities."

"Therefore, these allegations of a breakdown of law and order against the BJP do not add up and do not fall in sync with the positive track record in governance and administration of the present dispensation," the letter further stated.

The party asserted that very few incidents of violence occurred and in no case, there was any loss of life.

"The BJP stands by its duty to serve the people of Tripura and is committed to ensuring a safe environment for the conduct of free and fair elections. We reiterate our stand that there is no prevailing law and order situation which will harm the conduct of free and fair polls in Tripura," the BJP said.

It further urged the EC to not be misled by a "campaign of lies and misinformation" run at the behest of CPI-M and Congress.

Polling was deferred in Tripura East Lok Sabha after the EC said "law and order prevailing in the constituency is not conducive to the holding of free and fair polls."

CPI-M Secretary General Sitaram Yechury on Friday had urged the election body to conduct re-polling at 464 booths in Tripura West Lok Sabha constituency, where the polling took place on April 11.

"It is now established that there were large-scale irregularities. We hope EC will ensure that faith in our democracy is reaffirmed. The re-poll in 464 booths must be done as all voters should be able to exercise their franchise independently, exactly as it should be," Yechury had tweeted.&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has dismissed the opposition`s claim that law and order situation was not conducive for holding polls in Tripura East Lok Sabha constituency, where the polling was deferred from April 18 to April 23.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has dismissed the opposition`s claim that law and order situation was not conducive for holding polls in Tripura East Lok Sabha constituency, where the polling was deferred from April 18 to April 23. In a letter to the Election Commission on Friday, the BJP stated that a "false picture is being portrayed by the Congress and CPI-M with a view to mislead the Commission by attributing false allegations against the BJP." The party said that no complaints were lodged with the police or the EC after elections were held in one of the two Tripura parliamentary constituencies in the first phase of Lok Sabha polls. "The CEO on April 11 made a public statement that our general reports from all the observers are that it has been free and fair broadly," the letter stated. The BJP apprised the EC that 82.97 per cent of polling was recorded during the first phase of ongoing general elections when West Tripura constituency went to polls on April 11, thereby showing the highest level of enthusiasm among the voters of the state who voted without fear or intimidation, and central forces were adequately deployed. Accusing the Congress and CPI-M of levelling such allegations, the party said, "Despite these attempts by opposition parties such as CPI-M and Congress to flare communal tensions, they have been unsuccessful. The ruling BJP government has successfully ensured a harmonious co-existence between all groups and communities." "Therefore, these allegations of a breakdown of law and order against the BJP do not add up and do not fall in sync with the positive track record in governance and administration of the present dispensation," the letter further stated. The party asserted that very few incidents of violence occurred and in no case, there was any loss of life. "The BJP stands by its duty to serve the people of Tripura and is committed to ensuring a safe environment for the conduct of free and fair elections. We reiterate our stand that there is no prevailing law and order situation which will harm the conduct of free and fair polls in Tripura," the BJP said. It further urged the EC to not be misled by a "campaign of lies and misinformation" run at the behest of CPI-M and Congress. Polling was deferred in Tripura East Lok Sabha after the EC said "law and order prevailing in the constituency is not conducive to the holding of free and fair polls." CPI-M Secretary General Sitaram Yechury on Friday had urged the election body to conduct re-polling at 464 booths in Tripura West Lok Sabha constituency, where the polling took place on April 11. "It is now established that there were large-scale irregularities. We hope EC will ensure that faith in our democracy is reaffirmed. The re-poll in 464 booths must be done as all voters should be able to exercise their franchise independently, exactly as it should be," Yechury had tweeted.

BJP refutes opposition claim that situation not conducive for poll in Tripura East

The Election Commission special observer, Ajay V Nayak Saturday said the situation in West Bengal is similar to what it was in Bihar around 10 to 15 years ago and had lead to the voters' demand for deployment of central forces in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

The ruling Trinamool Congress demanded his immediate removal, claiming that Nayak has allegiance to the RSS and the BJP and is acting as per their orders.

The people of West Bengal have lost faith in the state police and therefore their demand for deployment of central forces at all polling booths has increased, Nayak, who is the former Bihar chief electoral officer, said.

The situation in Bihar has improved and less number of central forces are required there now, he told newsmen at the office of the West Bengal chief electoral officer here.

Nayak, a 1984-batch IAS officer, was recently given the responsibility to oversee the last five phases of polls in West Bengal.

"This situation in West Bengal is similar to what it was in Bihar around 10 to 15 years ago. During that time in Bihar total deployment of central forces at the booths was required. Now it is required in West Bengal as the people of West Bengal have lost faith in the state police and are seeking deployment of central forces at all the booths," he told reporters.

"I cannot understand that if people in Bihar were able to bring in a change in the atmosphere and situation there, then why this is not happening in West Bengal," Nayak said in the presence of state Chief Electoral Officer Ariz Aftab.

He said that in the third phase of polling on April 23, 324 companies of central forces would be deployed to cover more than 92 per cent of the polling booths in five Lok Sabha constituencies.

Balurghat, Malda North, Malda South, Jangipur and Murshidabad parliamentary constituencies will go to the polls on April 23.

Nayak, however, sounded hopeful that the state may require less central force by next Parliamentary elections.

"In terms of election management, things are improving in West Bengal. So I am sure by the time of next Parliamentary elections it will not require this kind of central force deployment. I am sure about that," Nayak said.

In the first phase on April 11, central forces were deployed in 51 per cent of the booths in Alipurduar and Cooch Behar seats and 194 companies covered 80 per cent of the booths in Raiganj, Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri in the second phase on April 18.

In the first phase, there were reports of booth capturing, smashing of EVMs and intimidation. Similar incidents were reported in the second phase from Chopra in Darjeeling constituency and also from Islampur in Raiganj constituency. There were also reports of damage to the vehicle of sitting CPI-M MP Mohammed Salim at Raiganj.

Nayak said no negligence was found after scrutiny of the pollings in the first phase and there will be no repoll in the constituencies where voting was held on the day.

The special observer, however, did not dismiss chances of repolling in some booths where polling was held in the second phase.

TMC secretary general Subrata Bakshi wrote to Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora demanding the immediate removal of Nayak to ensure free and fair polls in the state.

"The Election Commission after two phases of polling had said, barring a few incidents the polling was peaceful. Nayak's comments are highly misplaced. He is acting in a partisan manner with pre-conceived notions to destabilise elections in the state and create a fear psychosis among voters," Bakshi said in the letter.

Nayak has political and organisational allegiance to the RSS and is connected to BJP leaders. His statements clearly indicate that he has acted as per instructions of his political bosses, he said.

"It is therefore requested to immediately recall him or cancel his appointment as a special observer in the state of West Bengal to ensure free and fair elections," Bakshi said.

The EC has appointed Vivek Dubey as the special police observer for the Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal.

Meanwhile, the EC has transferred Malda district Superintendent of Police Arnab Ghosh and has brought in the commanding officer of the second battalion of state armed police Ajoy Prasad in his place.

Sources said Ghosh, who was reportedly close to the Trinamool Congress administration, was under the EC scanner.

The state BJP had urged the EC to remove Ghosh a few days ago.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Election Commission special observer, Ajay V Nayak Saturday said the situation in West Bengal is similar to what it was in Bihar around 10 to 15 years ago and had lead to the voters' demand for deployment of central forces in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

The Election Commission special observer, Ajay V Nayak Saturday said the situation in West Bengal is similar to what it was in Bihar around 10 to 15 years ago and had lead to the voters' demand for deployment of central forces in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. The ruling Trinamool Congress demanded his immediate removal, claiming that Nayak has allegiance to the RSS and the BJP and is acting as per their orders. The people of West Bengal have lost faith in the state police and therefore their demand for deployment of central forces at all polling booths has increased, Nayak, who is the former Bihar chief electoral officer, said. The situation in Bihar has improved and less number of central forces are required there now, he told newsmen at the office of the West Bengal chief electoral officer here. Nayak, a 1984-batch IAS officer, was recently given the responsibility to oversee the last five phases of polls in West Bengal. "This situation in West Bengal is similar to what it was in Bihar around 10 to 15 years ago. During that time in Bihar total deployment of central forces at the booths was required. Now it is required in West Bengal as the people of West Bengal have lost faith in the state police and are seeking deployment of central forces at all the booths," he told reporters. "I cannot understand that if people in Bihar were able to bring in a change in the atmosphere and situation there, then why this is not happening in West Bengal," Nayak said in the presence of state Chief Electoral Officer Ariz Aftab. He said that in the third phase of polling on April 23, 324 companies of central forces would be deployed to cover more than 92 per cent of the polling booths in five Lok Sabha constituencies. Balurghat, Malda North, Malda South, Jangipur and Murshidabad parliamentary constituencies will go to the polls on April 23. Nayak, however, sounded hopeful that the state may require less central force by next Parliamentary elections. "In terms of election management, things are improving in West Bengal. So I am sure by the time of next Parliamentary elections it will not require this kind of central force deployment. I am sure about that," Nayak said. In the first phase on April 11, central forces were deployed in 51 per cent of the booths in Alipurduar and Cooch Behar seats and 194 companies covered 80 per cent of the booths in Raiganj, Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri in the second phase on April 18. In the first phase, there were reports of booth capturing, smashing of EVMs and intimidation. Similar incidents were reported in the second phase from Chopra in Darjeeling constituency and also from Islampur in Raiganj constituency. There were also reports of damage to the vehicle of sitting CPI-M MP Mohammed Salim at Raiganj. Nayak said no negligence was found after scrutiny of the pollings in the first phase and there will be no repoll in the constituencies where voting was held on the day. The special observer, however, did not dismiss chances of repolling in some booths where polling was held in the second phase. TMC secretary general Subrata Bakshi wrote to Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora demanding the immediate removal of Nayak to ensure free and fair polls in the state. "The Election Commission after two phases of polling had said, barring a few incidents the polling was peaceful. Nayak's comments are highly misplaced. He is acting in a partisan manner with pre-conceived notions to destabilise elections in the state and create a fear psychosis among voters," Bakshi said in the letter. Nayak has political and organisational allegiance to the RSS and is connected to BJP leaders. His statements clearly indicate that he has acted as per instructions of his political bosses, he said. "It is therefore requested to immediately recall him or cancel his appointment as a special observer in the state of West Bengal to ensure free and fair elections," Bakshi said. The EC has appointed Vivek Dubey as the special police observer for the Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal. Meanwhile, the EC has transferred Malda district Superintendent of Police Arnab Ghosh and has brought in the commanding officer of the second battalion of state armed police Ajoy Prasad in his place. Sources said Ghosh, who was reportedly close to the Trinamool Congress administration, was under the EC scanner. The state BJP had urged the EC to remove Ghosh a few days ago.

Situation in Bengal like Bihar 15 years ago: Election Commission special observer; TMC demands his removal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday asserted that the BJP is committed to 'desh bhakti', while its rival Congress is dedicated to 'vote bhakti' as part of its appeasement politics.

He said lies are being spread that his government introduced 10 per cent reservation for the weaker sections of the unreserved categories will eventually do away with the quota system.

"The country has witnessed two types of politics of vote bhakti and of desh bhakti. The former was on display when after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks the government of the day did not go after Pakistan for abetting terror.

"It rather chose to derail the investigations in many terror cases by coming up with the theory of Hindu terror. Desh bhakti was demonstrated by us when the Uri terror attack was replied with surgical strike and Pulwama was followed by air strikes," Modi told an election rally here.

The politics of 'vote bhakti' was again on display when the Congress insulted martyrs of the Batla House encounter in New Delhi by casting doubts over the operation in which security personnel were killed, he said.

A team of Delhi Police had raided a Batla House flat in south Delhi following a tip-off that terrorists involved in the September 13, 2008 serial blasts in the national capital, were holed up there.

Some Congress leaders were in tears when they came to know about the Batla House encounter, Modi claimed.

"The trends of the first two phases of elections have left them rattled. They are not demanding proofs of the Balakot air strike," Modi claimed at the rally.

In a bid to reach out to the farmers, the prime minister announced that in his next term he will ensure that the ceiling of ownership of five acres of land for beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samriddhi Nidhi Yojana is made available to all.

Leaders of BJP allies - Chief Minister Nitish Kumar who heads the JD(U), and cabinet colleague Ram Vilas Paswan, who is the founder of the LJP - were also on the stage.

In a veiled attack on Lalu Prasad's RJD and its heir apparent Tejashwi Yadav, Modi said, "In Bihar, some people are purveying lies that the quota for economically weaker sections was a step in the direction of finishing off reservations."

Asking the people to be cautious about them, he alleged that they have been running their shops with such falsehoods for two decades - "first by the father and now by the son".

He also made a mention of the welfare schemes launched by his government including the Ayushman Bharat Yojana which provides medical insurance cover at a small premium.

Seeking to strike a chord with the local populace, he spoke movingly of the renowned Hindi writer Phanishwar Nath Renu, who hailed from Araria district, and said he had received a copy of his renowned novel "Maila Anchal" as a gift from the late litterateur's son.

He sought votes for NDA candidates in adjoining constituencies of Madhepura, Jhanjharpur, Supaul and Khagaria, all of which go to polls in the third phase on April 23.

As these seats have a sizeable population of Yadavs, Modi deftly played the caste card saying, "I come from the land of Dwarka (Gujarat) and it has a very strong affinity with the gau-paalaks (those involved in the profession of rearing cows). 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday asserted that the BJP is committed to 'desh bhakti', while its rival Congress is dedicated to 'vote bhakti' as part of its appeasement politics.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday asserted that the BJP is committed to 'desh bhakti', while its rival Congress is dedicated to 'vote bhakti' as part of its appeasement politics. He said lies are being spread that his government introduced 10 per cent reservation for the weaker sections of the unreserved categories will eventually do away with the quota system. "The country has witnessed two types of politics of vote bhakti and of desh bhakti. The former was on display when after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks the government of the day did not go after Pakistan for abetting terror. "It rather chose to derail the investigations in many terror cases by coming up with the theory of Hindu terror. Desh bhakti was demonstrated by us when the Uri terror attack was replied with surgical strike and Pulwama was followed by air strikes," Modi told an election rally here. The politics of 'vote bhakti' was again on display when the Congress insulted martyrs of the Batla House encounter in New Delhi by casting doubts over the operation in which security personnel were killed, he said. A team of Delhi Police had raided a Batla House flat in south Delhi following a tip-off that terrorists involved in the September 13, 2008 serial blasts in the national capital, were holed up there. Some Congress leaders were in tears when they came to know about the Batla House encounter, Modi claimed. "The trends of the first two phases of elections have left them rattled. They are not demanding proofs of the Balakot air strike," Modi claimed at the rally. In a bid to reach out to the farmers, the prime minister announced that in his next term he will ensure that the ceiling of ownership of five acres of land for beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samriddhi Nidhi Yojana is made available to all. Leaders of BJP allies - Chief Minister Nitish Kumar who heads the JD(U), and cabinet colleague Ram Vilas Paswan, who is the founder of the LJP - were also on the stage. In a veiled attack on Lalu Prasad's RJD and its heir apparent Tejashwi Yadav, Modi said, "In Bihar, some people are purveying lies that the quota for economically weaker sections was a step in the direction of finishing off reservations." Asking the people to be cautious about them, he alleged that they have been running their shops with such falsehoods for two decades - "first by the father and now by the son". He also made a mention of the welfare schemes launched by his government including the Ayushman Bharat Yojana which provides medical insurance cover at a small premium. Seeking to strike a chord with the local populace, he spoke movingly of the renowned Hindi writer Phanishwar Nath Renu, who hailed from Araria district, and said he had received a copy of his renowned novel "Maila Anchal" as a gift from the late litterateur's son. He sought votes for NDA candidates in adjoining constituencies of Madhepura, Jhanjharpur, Supaul and Khagaria, all of which go to polls in the third phase on April 23. As these seats have a sizeable population of Yadavs, Modi deftly played the caste card saying, "I come from the land of Dwarka (Gujarat) and it has a very strong affinity with the gau-paalaks (those involved in the profession of rearing cows).

Congress pursues vote bhakti, we have desh bhakti: Modi in Bihar rally

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday said that his party went into an alliance with the BJP because he wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan.

"Shiv Sena wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan and so we went into an alliance with BJP," said Thackeray while addressing a public rally in Aurangabad.

Slamming the Congress party on its stance on Article 370, he said, "All laws in Kashmir should be on par with the rest of India. Congress does not want to abolish Article 370, while leaders like Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti have said that if Article 370 is abolished there will be no one to respect the tricolor."

Thackeray also came down heavily on former JNU Students Union president Kanhaiya Kumar who is contesting on a CPI ticket from Begusarai in Bihar.

"People like Kanhaiya Kumar preparing to enter Lok Sabha is very sad, he is a separatist," he said.

Hitting out at NCP chief Sharad Pawar`s statements on Shiv Sena`s pre-poll pact with BJP, Thackeray said, "Sharad Pawar left Congress abusing Rajiv Gandhi and pledged that he would never join Congress till the end. He is black at heart. Pawar later joined Congress. How can such a man say that the alliance of Shiv Sena and BJP is not fair?"

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday said that his party went into an alliance with the BJP because he wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan. "Shiv Sena wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan and so we went into an alliance with BJP," said Thackeray while addressing a public rally in Aurangabad.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday said that his party went into an alliance with the BJP because he wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan. "Shiv Sena wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan and so we went into an alliance with BJP," said Thackeray while addressing a public rally in Aurangabad. Slamming the Congress party on its stance on Article 370, he said, "All laws in Kashmir should be on par with the rest of India. Congress does not want to abolish Article 370, while leaders like Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti have said that if Article 370 is abolished there will be no one to respect the tricolor." Thackeray also came down heavily on former JNU Students Union president Kanhaiya Kumar who is contesting on a CPI ticket from Begusarai in Bihar. "People like Kanhaiya Kumar preparing to enter Lok Sabha is very sad, he is a separatist," he said. Hitting out at NCP chief Sharad Pawar`s statements on Shiv Sena`s pre-poll pact with BJP, Thackeray said, "Sharad Pawar left Congress abusing Rajiv Gandhi and pledged that he would never join Congress till the end. He is black at heart. Pawar later joined Congress. How can such a man say that the alliance of Shiv Sena and BJP is not fair?"

Wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan: Uddhav Thackeray on alliance with BJP

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address election rallies in Rajasthan's Chittorgarh and Barmer districts on Sunday.

Modi will address the public meetings in support of BJP nominees at 2 pm in Chittorgarh and 3.15 pm in Barmer, BJP state tour programme convener Omkar Singh Lakhawat said.

He said the prime minister will also address rallies in Udaipur and Jodhpur on Monday.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, too, will address three public meetings on Monday in Kolayat of Bikaner, Deoli of Tonk and Shahajahapur of Alwar.

BJP chief Amit Shah will tour the state on April 26 and 30. He will address a public meeting in Jalore district on April 26 and then take part in a road show in Jodhpur the same day.

On April 30, Shah will address meetings in Dausa, Alwar and Bharatpur districts, Lakhawat said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address election rallies in Rajasthan's Chittorgarh and Barmer districts on Sunday. Modi will address the public meetings in support of BJP nominees at 2 pm in Chittorgarh and 3.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address election rallies in Rajasthan's Chittorgarh and Barmer districts on Sunday. Modi will address the public meetings in support of BJP nominees at 2 pm in Chittorgarh and 3.15 pm in Barmer, BJP state tour programme convener Omkar Singh Lakhawat said. He said the prime minister will also address rallies in Udaipur and Jodhpur on Monday. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, too, will address three public meetings on Monday in Kolayat of Bikaner, Deoli of Tonk and Shahajahapur of Alwar. BJP chief Amit Shah will tour the state on April 26 and 30. He will address a public meeting in Jalore district on April 26 and then take part in a road show in Jodhpur the same day. On April 30, Shah will address meetings in Dausa, Alwar and Bharatpur districts, Lakhawat said.

Rajasthan: PM Modi to address rallies in Chittorgarh, Barmer on Sunday

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in Allahabad High Court on Friday against Congress` `<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nyay-will-revive-economy-create-jobs-says-rahul-211805">Nyuntam Aay Yojana</a>` (NYAY) scheme mentioned in the party manifesto.

Under the NYAY scheme or the minimum income guarantee scheme, Congress has promised that it will give Rs 72,000 per year to 20 per cent of India`s poorest if the party emerged victorious in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections.

The petitioners have contended that such a poll promise amounted to bribery and that it violated the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

The court has issued a notice to the Congress party seeking a reply within 10 days.

The next hearing has been scheduled for May 13.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi had said that the NYAY scheme would be a "surgical strike" against poverty and that it would not harm the country`s economy.&nbsp;

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in Allahabad High Court on Friday against Congress` `Nyuntam Aay Yojana` (NYAY) scheme mentioned in the party manifesto.

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in Allahabad High Court on Friday against Congress` `Nyuntam Aay Yojana` (NYAY) scheme mentioned in the party manifesto. Under the NYAY scheme or the minimum income guarantee scheme, Congress has promised that it will give Rs 72,000 per year to 20 per cent of India`s poorest if the party emerged victorious in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. The petitioners have contended that such a poll promise amounted to bribery and that it violated the Representation of the People Act, 1951. The court has issued a notice to the Congress party seeking a reply within 10 days. The next hearing has been scheduled for May 13. Congress president Rahul Gandhi had said that the NYAY scheme would be a "surgical strike" against poverty and that it would not harm the country`s economy.

Petition filed in Allahabad High Court against Congress' NYAY scheme

Taking a jibe at former prime minister HD Deve Gowda, BJP leader and former Karnataka chief minister BS Yeddyurappa said that though Gowda`s party is contesting only on a few seats in the state, he is nursing ambitions of becoming the Prime Minister of the country, or at least an advisor to the PM.

Speaking exclusively to Smita Prakash of ANI, Yeddyurappa said, "Deve Gowda is fighting on 7 seats in Karnataka and has ambitions of becoming the Prime Minister or an advisor to the Prime Minister."

Gowda had said in a recent interview that unlike BJP veteran LK Advani, he is not going to retire from active politics and that if Congress president Rahul Gandhi becomes the Prime Minister of the country, he will be sitting by his side.

Of the 28 parliamentary constituencies in the state, Congress and JD(S) are contesting on 21 and 7 seats, respectively, as per a pre-poll arrangement.

Expressing his confidence of BJP gaining a big victory at the polls, Yeddyurappa said, "Despite all the divisive tactics by the Congress party, BJP emerged as the single largest party in the Assembly elections by winning 104 seats. In this election too we are hundred per cent confident that we will not only win Shimoga Lok Sabha seat with a huge margin but also win more than 22 seats in the state."

Shimoga has become a high profile constituency in the state as sons of two chief ministers are battling it out. Yeddyurappa`s son B Y Raghavendra has been campaigning extensively and tells ANI that despite the state machinery being used against the BJP in his constituency, the people are with him.

His father is very popular in Shikaripura where they have a modest family home in a congested locality but Raghavendra feels that Modi`s popularity is his trump card.

The JD (S) nominee Madhu Bangarappa, son of former CM is banking on the Ediga community and his late father`s popularity. HD Kumaraswamy has made several emotional appeals to minorities and other communities to break the hold that Yeddyurappa has in central Karnataka.But the ageing Kannada stalwart Yeddyurappa is confident of adding Karnataka to Modi`s kitty, "We are going to win at least 300 seats in the entire country," he added.

On the prospects of JD(S)-Congress alliance getting `destabilized` in Karnataka if BJP wins the Lok Sabha elections, Yeddyurappa said, "After results, anything may happen," claiming that "over 20 Congress MLAs are not ready to help the Chief Minister, they are not happy with him".

He, however, denied that the allegedly estranged MLAs were in touch with him. "These MLAs have not spoken to me, they have spoken secretly," he said. He probably means that there is a whisper campaign.

Talking about the Veerashaiva-Lingayat issue, Yeddyurappa accused former Congress president Sonia Gandhi of hatching a conspiracy with the local Congress leadership to divide the Lingayat community in the state.

"Congress leader and Home Minister MB Patil had written to the then AICC chief Sonia Gandhi on Veerashaiva-Lingayat issue which exposes the conspiracy hatched by Congress to prevent BJP from coming to power in Karnataka. What is surprising is that Sonia Gandhi is involved in this conspiracy as the letter written by Patil starts with `as suggested by you`, that means she herself has guided state Congress leaders on the issue," he said.

"Being the head of a national party and claiming the legacy of Nehru family, she should not have stooped to such a level because we have high regards for Nehru and his family. Though it is not new for Congress people to involve in such conspiracies," he added.

On Kumaraswamy`s alleged claims that he knew about the `Pulwama terrorist attack` two years back, Yeddyurappa hit back questioning the CM`s silence for so long."If he knew about the attack two years back, he should have informed it to the police or to the President of India so that such a tragic incident and the death of our more than 40 soldiers could have been prevented," he said.

Yeddyurappa is dismissive of the Chief Minister`s statements on Pulwama and Balakot, telling ANI that HDK seems mentally unsound.

Refuting the allegations levelled on him by the Congress in the `Yeddyurappa diary` row wherein he was alleged to have paid Rs 1800 crore to some top BJP leaders, the former CM said that there was no truth in it.

"If there is even a small amount of truth in it, I will retire from politics. Officials and experts have checked my handwriting and signature and have come out openly saying that it was not my signature at all. It was not a diary but only 2-3 loose sheets," he said.

Continuing his tirade against the JD(S)-Congress government in the state, the senior BJP leader said that it has been a complete failure and that the CM has lost his "mental balance".

"We are seeking votes on Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s 5-year performance. The existing coalition government has miserably failed in Karnataka and the Chief Minister has lost his mental balance and is speaking irresponsibly," he said.

"In Mandya district, Sumalatha is giving a very good fight and she may win the election. The Chief Minister was there only for a week, thereafter he lost his mental balance and is speaking nonsense wherever he has gone after that," said Yeddyurappa.

The BJP has fielded candidates in all constituencies except in Mandya where it has extended support to independent candidate Sumalatha, wife of late actor-turned-politician Ambareesh. Sensing difficulties for his son Nikhil, who is the coalition candidate, Kumaraswamy had been campaigning in Mandya for the past few days.

When asked about his statements on Balakot, Yeddyurappa said that he has been misquoted by some media outlets. "I didn`t say that Balakot air strike will help us to win 22 seats, I was misquoted by the media. The credit will go to the military," he said.&nbsp;

Taking a jibe at former prime minister HD Deve Gowda, BJP leader and former Karnataka chief minister BS Yeddyurappa said that though Gowda`s party is contesting only on a few seats in the state, he is nursing ambitions of becoming the Prime Minister of the country, or at least an advisor to the PM.

Taking a jibe at former prime minister HD Deve Gowda, BJP leader and former Karnataka chief minister BS Yeddyurappa said that though Gowda`s party is contesting only on a few seats in the state, he is nursing ambitions of becoming the Prime Minister of the country, or at least an advisor to the PM. Speaking exclusively to Smita Prakash of ANI, Yeddyurappa said, "Deve Gowda is fighting on 7 seats in Karnataka and has ambitions of becoming the Prime Minister or an advisor to the Prime Minister." Gowda had said in a recent interview that unlike BJP veteran LK Advani, he is not going to retire from active politics and that if Congress president Rahul Gandhi becomes the Prime Minister of the country, he will be sitting by his side. Of the 28 parliamentary constituencies in the state, Congress and JD(S) are contesting on 21 and 7 seats, respectively, as per a pre-poll arrangement. Expressing his confidence of BJP gaining a big victory at the polls, Yeddyurappa said, "Despite all the divisive tactics by the Congress party, BJP emerged as the single largest party in the Assembly elections by winning 104 seats. In this election too we are hundred per cent confident that we will not only win Shimoga Lok Sabha seat with a huge margin but also win more than 22 seats in the state." Shimoga has become a high profile constituency in the state as sons of two chief ministers are battling it out. Yeddyurappa`s son B Y Raghavendra has been campaigning extensively and tells ANI that despite the state machinery being used against the BJP in his constituency, the people are with him. His father is very popular in Shikaripura where they have a modest family home in a congested locality but Raghavendra feels that Modi`s popularity is his trump card. The JD (S) nominee Madhu Bangarappa, son of former CM is banking on the Ediga community and his late father`s popularity. HD Kumaraswamy has made several emotional appeals to minorities and other communities to break the hold that Yeddyurappa has in central Karnataka.But the ageing Kannada stalwart Yeddyurappa is confident of adding Karnataka to Modi`s kitty, "We are going to win at least 300 seats in the entire country," he added. On the prospects of JD(S)-Congress alliance getting `destabilized` in Karnataka if BJP wins the Lok Sabha elections, Yeddyurappa said, "After results, anything may happen," claiming that "over 20 Congress MLAs are not ready to help the Chief Minister, they are not happy with him". He, however, denied that the allegedly estranged MLAs were in touch with him. "These MLAs have not spoken to me, they have spoken secretly," he said. He probably means that there is a whisper campaign. Talking about the Veerashaiva-Lingayat issue, Yeddyurappa accused former Congress president Sonia Gandhi of hatching a conspiracy with the local Congress leadership to divide the Lingayat community in the state. "Congress leader and Home Minister MB Patil had written to the then AICC chief Sonia Gandhi on Veerashaiva-Lingayat issue which exposes the conspiracy hatched by Congress to prevent BJP from coming to power in Karnataka. What is surprising is that Sonia Gandhi is involved in this conspiracy as the letter written by Patil starts with `as suggested by you`, that means she herself has guided state Congress leaders on the issue," he said. "Being the head of a national party and claiming the legacy of Nehru family, she should not have stooped to such a level because we have high regards for Nehru and his family. Though it is not new for Congress people to involve in such conspiracies," he added. On Kumaraswamy`s alleged claims that he knew about the `Pulwama terrorist attack` two years back, Yeddyurappa hit back questioning the CM`s silence for so long."If he knew about the attack two years back, he should have informed it to the police or to the President of India so that such a tragic incident and the death of our more than 40 soldiers could have been prevented," he said. Yeddyurappa is dismissive of the Chief Minister`s statements on Pulwama and Balakot, telling ANI that HDK seems mentally unsound. Refuting the allegations levelled on him by the Congress in the `Yeddyurappa diary` row wherein he was alleged to have paid Rs 1800 crore to some top BJP leaders, the former CM said that there was no truth in it. "If there is even a small amount of truth in it, I will retire from politics. Officials and experts have checked my handwriting and signature and have come out openly saying that it was not my signature at all. It was not a diary but only 2-3 loose sheets," he said. Continuing his tirade against the JD(S)-Congress government in the state, the senior BJP leader said that it has been a complete failure and that the CM has lost his "mental balance". "We are seeking votes on Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s 5-year performance. The existing coalition government has miserably failed in Karnataka and the Chief Minister has lost his mental balance and is speaking irresponsibly," he said. "In Mandya district, Sumalatha is giving a very good fight and she may win the election. The Chief Minister was there only for a week, thereafter he lost his mental balance and is speaking nonsense wherever he has gone after that," said Yeddyurappa. The BJP has fielded candidates in all constituencies except in Mandya where it has extended support to independent candidate Sumalatha, wife of late actor-turned-politician Ambareesh. Sensing difficulties for his son Nikhil, who is the coalition candidate, Kumaraswamy had been campaigning in Mandya for the past few days. When asked about his statements on Balakot, Yeddyurappa said that he has been misquoted by some media outlets. "I didn`t say that Balakot air strike will help us to win 22 seats, I was misquoted by the media. The credit will go to the military," he said.

Gowda is fighting in 7 seats, yet dreaming of becoming PM: BS Yeddyurappa

The Aam Aadmi Party has extended its unconditional support to the Left Democratic Front in Kerala following which the Left front also expressed its support to the ruling party in Delhi for the general elections.

"The AAP's political affairs committee (PAC) has decided to give unconditional support to the Left Democratic Front candidates in the state (Kerala)," AAP leader Somnath Bharti said.

CPI(M) leader Nilotpal Basu thanked the AAP for the support and also extended his party's support to the Arvind Kejriwal-led party.&nbsp;

"Our main aim is to remove the NDA and stop communal tension and polarisation done by them and in this direction, we are campaigning in different states. We thank the AAP for supporting us," he told reporters in a joint press conference with Bharti.

Meanwhile, the AAP suspended its Kerala convener C R Neelakandan for allegedly announcing the party's support to the Congress in the southern state without any consultation with the party's political affairs committee.

Bharti said Neelakandan held a press conference in Kerala and said the AAP supports the candidates of the Congress in the state.

"That press conference was unauthorised and conducted without the knowledge or consultation of the Aam Aadmi Party. The AAP's political affairs committee has condemned his move and decided to suspend Neelakandan from the primary membership of the party," he said.

AAP's New Delhi Lok Sabha candidate Brijesh Goyal hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent address at the Talkatora Stadium here, claiming that traders were extremely unhappy with Modi for not addressing their issues at the event.&nbsp;

Modi on Friday addressed a thanksgiving convention at the Talkatora Stadium organised by traders supporting the BJP to express their "gratitude" for various measures promised in the party manifesto for the Lok Sabha polls. &nbsp;

The Aam Aadmi Party has extended its unconditional support to the Left Democratic Front in Kerala following which the Left front also expressed its support to the ruling party in Delhi for the general elections.

The Aam Aadmi Party has extended its unconditional support to the Left Democratic Front in Kerala following which the Left front also expressed its support to the ruling party in Delhi for the general elections. "The AAP's political affairs committee (PAC) has decided to give unconditional support to the Left Democratic Front candidates in the state (Kerala)," AAP leader Somnath Bharti said. CPI(M) leader Nilotpal Basu thanked the AAP for the support and also extended his party's support to the Arvind Kejriwal-led party. "Our main aim is to remove the NDA and stop communal tension and polarisation done by them and in this direction, we are campaigning in different states. We thank the AAP for supporting us," he told reporters in a joint press conference with Bharti. Meanwhile, the AAP suspended its Kerala convener C R Neelakandan for allegedly announcing the party's support to the Congress in the southern state without any consultation with the party's political affairs committee. Bharti said Neelakandan held a press conference in Kerala and said the AAP supports the candidates of the Congress in the state. "That press conference was unauthorised and conducted without the knowledge or consultation of the Aam Aadmi Party. The AAP's political affairs committee has condemned his move and decided to suspend Neelakandan from the primary membership of the party," he said. AAP's New Delhi Lok Sabha candidate Brijesh Goyal hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent address at the Talkatora Stadium here, claiming that traders were extremely unhappy with Modi for not addressing their issues at the event. Modi on Friday addressed a thanksgiving convention at the Talkatora Stadium organised by traders supporting the BJP to express their "gratitude" for various measures promised in the party manifesto for the Lok Sabha polls.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: AAP, Left Democratic Front extend support to each other

The Allahabad High Court Friday asked the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/vivek-oberoi-meets-election-commission-officials-over-the-release-of-modi-biopic-says-happy-but-cant-reveal-their-response-211680">Election Commission </a>to file its reply on a PIL seeking a stay on the release of a biopic on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The court has asked the poll panel to file the reply by the next date of hearing on April 26.

A bench comprising justices Sudhir Agarwal and Rajendra Kumar also asked the EC how the makers of the film will be compensated for losses due to delay in the release of the movie.

The bench passed the order after hearing the PIL filed by Sana Ullah Khan, president of Bhim Sena.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The petitioner contended that the release of the movie during election time will influence voters, and hence, violate the Model Code of Conduct.

It was also alleged that the release of movie will effect free and fair elections. Hence, its release must be stopped, the petition said.

The Modi biopic, starring Vivek Oberoi and directed by Omung Kumar, tells the story of PM Modi's rise to power from his humble beginnings.

The Allahabad High Court Friday asked the Election Commission to file its reply on a PIL seeking a stay on the release of a biopic on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Allahabad High Court Friday asked the Election Commission to file its reply on a PIL seeking a stay on the release of a biopic on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The court has asked the poll panel to file the reply by the next date of hearing on April 26. A bench comprising justices Sudhir Agarwal and Rajendra Kumar also asked the EC how the makers of the film will be compensated for losses due to delay in the release of the movie. The bench passed the order after hearing the PIL filed by Sana Ullah Khan, president of Bhim Sena. The petitioner contended that the release of the movie during election time will influence voters, and hence, violate the Model Code of Conduct. It was also alleged that the release of movie will effect free and fair elections. Hence, its release must be stopped, the petition said. The Modi biopic, starring Vivek Oberoi and directed by Omung Kumar, tells the story of PM Modi's rise to power from his humble beginnings.

High Court seeks Election Commission's reply on a plea against release of biopic on Modi

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav on Friday called Congress `sabse dhokebaaz` (most betraying) party of the country.

"Congress desh ki sabse dhokebaaz party hai," Akhilesh said at a press conference in Lucknow.

His comment came after Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday reportedly said that SP and BSP leaders are afraid of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he has the CBI and Enforcement Directorate under him.

"Those Congress people who are saying that we are afraid of ED and CBI, we are in fact not afraid of any organisation. Congress itself got an investigation done on us. The person who filed the PIL belongs to Congress. Big leaders of Congress gave money to get PIL filed against Netaji (Mulayam Singh Yadav) and our family. That person is still a part of Congress. When the investigation got over and the matter came up for review, that person joined hands with BJP," said Akhilesh.

"I want to make this clear that the person who filed PIL on Netaji, me and my wife Dimple has joined hands with both BJP and Congress. Both the parties have formed an alliance on this," he added.&nbsp;

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav on Friday called Congress `sabse dhokebaaz` (most betraying) party of the country. "Congress desh ki sabse dhokebaaz party hai," Akhilesh said at a press conference in Lucknow.

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav on Friday called Congress `sabse dhokebaaz` (most betraying) party of the country. "Congress desh ki sabse dhokebaaz party hai," Akhilesh said at a press conference in Lucknow. His comment came after Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday reportedly said that SP and BSP leaders are afraid of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he has the CBI and Enforcement Directorate under him. "Those Congress people who are saying that we are afraid of ED and CBI, we are in fact not afraid of any organisation. Congress itself got an investigation done on us. The person who filed the PIL belongs to Congress. Big leaders of Congress gave money to get PIL filed against Netaji (Mulayam Singh Yadav) and our family. That person is still a part of Congress. When the investigation got over and the matter came up for review, that person joined hands with BJP," said Akhilesh. "I want to make this clear that the person who filed PIL on Netaji, me and my wife Dimple has joined hands with both BJP and Congress. Both the parties have formed an alliance on this," he added.

Akhilesh calls Congress 'sabse dhokebaaz' party

Samajwadi Party (SP) on Saturday fielded Pandhari Yadav as party candidate from Phulpur Lok Sabha constituency for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

The party`s sitting MP from the constituency is Nagendra Pratap Singh Patel who had won the seat in the bye-election.

However, the ticket has been given to Yadav this time.

SP also fielded Rajendra Singh Patel as the candidate from Allahabad Lok Sabha constituency on Saturday.

Phulpur constituency will go to polls in the sixth phase on May 12.

The 2019 Lok Sabha elections are being held in 7 phases from 11 April to 19 May. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Samajwadi Party (SP) on Saturday fielded Pandhari Yadav as party candidate from Phulpur Lok Sabha constituency for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. The party`s sitting MP from the constituency is Nagendra Pratap Singh Patel who had won the seat in the bye-election.

Samajwadi Party (SP) on Saturday fielded Pandhari Yadav as party candidate from Phulpur Lok Sabha constituency for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. The party`s sitting MP from the constituency is Nagendra Pratap Singh Patel who had won the seat in the bye-election. However, the ticket has been given to Yadav this time. SP also fielded Rajendra Singh Patel as the candidate from Allahabad Lok Sabha constituency on Saturday. Phulpur constituency will go to polls in the sixth phase on May 12. The 2019 Lok Sabha elections are being held in 7 phases from 11 April to 19 May. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls: Samajwadi Party fields Pandhari Yadav from Phulpur constituency

With election fervour running intense in West Bengal, Malda district gears up for the third phase of the ensuing Lok Sabha elections with a battle between the 'first cousins'&nbsp;of a veteran political family.

Isha Khan, son of Congress stalwart Abu Haseem Choudhury, will be contesting against his first cousin Mausam Noor who is a sitting MP from Malda North. Mausam Noor won the MP seat under the Congress banner.

In 2008, she defeated her rival Haji Ketabuddin of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) by a margin of 21,205 votes.

Later, she was elected as Lok Sabha MP from Malda North parliamentary constituency. She also became the youngest Muslim woman to be elected to the 15th Lok Sabha.

But, she joined the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in the name of development this January. Senior Congress leader Abu Haseem and brother of Ghani expressed discontent about his sister`s daughter (Mausam Noor) joining Trinamool.

"This is unfortunate as our family is known as the pillar of Congress. It is sad that somebody leaves Congress and joins another party," he said.

He added that the people of Bengal are "frustrated and confused" with the leadership.

They do not know whom to vote.

"Malda district has Congress bastion from the time after Ghani Khan served as a Minister of Railway under former prime ministers-- Indira Gandhi and her son Rajiv Gandhi," he said.

Congress candidate of Malda North constituency Isha Khan Choudhury, who is confident of his winning, said: "Mausam Noor joined the TMC in the name of development, however very little development has taken place in Malda North under the TMC."

"During Panchayat elections, criminality was fully supported by the administration and the ruling government. Now, nobody is ready to suffer again like Panchayat elections," he said while targeting Mausam.

Sreerupa Mitra Choudhury from the BJP is contesting against Abu Haseem from Malda South.

She joined the BJP in 2015 after quitting from the TMC. This time it has been observed that as the Left Front is supporting Congress, the party has not proposed any candidate from Malda South.

Malda district comprising of two Lok Sabha constituencies Malda South and Malda North, which will go for polling on April 23.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

With election fervour running intense in West Bengal, Malda district gears up for the third phase of the ensuing Lok Sabha elections with a battle between the 'first cousins' of a veteran political family.

With election fervour running intense in West Bengal, Malda district gears up for the third phase of the ensuing Lok Sabha elections with a battle between the 'first cousins' of a veteran political family. Isha Khan, son of Congress stalwart Abu Haseem Choudhury, will be contesting against his first cousin Mausam Noor who is a sitting MP from Malda North. Mausam Noor won the MP seat under the Congress banner. In 2008, she defeated her rival Haji Ketabuddin of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) by a margin of 21,205 votes. Later, she was elected as Lok Sabha MP from Malda North parliamentary constituency. She also became the youngest Muslim woman to be elected to the 15th Lok Sabha. But, she joined the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in the name of development this January. Senior Congress leader Abu Haseem and brother of Ghani expressed discontent about his sister`s daughter (Mausam Noor) joining Trinamool. "This is unfortunate as our family is known as the pillar of Congress. It is sad that somebody leaves Congress and joins another party," he said. He added that the people of Bengal are "frustrated and confused" with the leadership. They do not know whom to vote. "Malda district has Congress bastion from the time after Ghani Khan served as a Minister of Railway under former prime ministers-- Indira Gandhi and her son Rajiv Gandhi," he said. Congress candidate of Malda North constituency Isha Khan Choudhury, who is confident of his winning, said: "Mausam Noor joined the TMC in the name of development, however very little development has taken place in Malda North under the TMC." "During Panchayat elections, criminality was fully supported by the administration and the ruling government. Now, nobody is ready to suffer again like Panchayat elections," he said while targeting Mausam. Sreerupa Mitra Choudhury from the BJP is contesting against Abu Haseem from Malda South. She joined the BJP in 2015 after quitting from the TMC. This time it has been observed that as the Left Front is supporting Congress, the party has not proposed any candidate from Malda South. Malda district comprising of two Lok Sabha constituencies Malda South and Malda North, which will go for polling on April 23.

Lok Sabha polls: North Malda to witness tough fight between first cousins